After the Storm: Charleston’s Blueprint for Risk Reduction After Hurricane Hugo

In 1989, Hurricane Hugo hit Charleston, South Carolina. The natural disaster claimed a dozen lives and caused more than $10 billion in recovery costs. At the time, it was the most destructive and expensive hurricane on record.

The city was devastated, but then-Mayor Joseph Riley vowed not just to rebuild, but to rebuild better. His plan included a storm water management plan using underground pipes as well as nature-based solutions to prevent erosion and storm damage along the coast.

With flood-related disasters increasing nationwide, Congress is discussing ways to invest in our nation’s infrastructure and solutions to safeguard communities. Charleston’s story can serve as an example to these lawmakers and to others cities across the United States.

Learn more at pewtrusts.org/floods.