Flash floods are constantly shaping Texas communities and while efforts to keep residents safe are a priority, the shifting landscape is forcing urban planners and experts to think differently about how to plan for the next big storm.
Marcio Giacomoni, PhD, professor of civil and environmental engineering, and construction management, studies stormwater management systems and flooding across Texas, including Flash Flood Alley, one of North America’s most flood-prone regions.
Throughout history, major flood events have shaped how communities approach flood planning and infrastructure. According to Giacomoni, preparedness must continue to evolve.
“There is no doubt that the 100-year flood from 10 years ago is smaller than the 100-year flood from today,” Giacomoni explains.
When Giacomoni first joined UT San Antonio, local flood infrastructure was designed to withstand 10 inches of rain within 24 hours. Updated calculations now place that figure closer to 12 inches.
Listen to the newest episode of Launchpad: Voices of Innovation, as Giacomoni reflects on his personal experience during the 2025 flooding in Kerrville, Texas, and discusses his research on stormwater management and the intriguing engineering behind it.
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