Using GIS and historical flood data to analyze the risk and vulnerability of a rural community, past and present: The Neosho River in Coffey County, Kansas

Abstract

Flooding is among the most destructive natural disasters. Continuous monitoring of potential flooding is necessary for decision makers and planners. Using GIS, analysis and visual representation allow for vulnerable areas to be identified and analyzed for risk. If potential flood risk areas can be identified, assessed, and understood, then minimizing the damage to properties and saving lives can increase. Coffey County, Kansas is located in east-central Kansas and is home to 8,500 people, Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation, and John Redmond Reservoir. With the construction of John Redmond, flooding has significantly decreased, but the flood history of this county still looms. Coffey County’s topographic characteristics make the location ideal for flood risk assessment as the city of Burlington lies along the Neosho River, protected upstream by a reservoir. Although the likelihood of a historic flood, like the one Burlington experienced in 1951, is minimal, being prepared should be, and is, a priority for all of Coffey County. This research emphasizes the importance of defining an area’s critical infrastructure, locating these areas, and assessing their potential flood risk. This information is vital to the awareness and preparedness of a community. Obtaining and simulating historical flood data allows for viewers to visualize the potential risk to their homes, infrastructure, and population. Using GIS analysis tools, visual representations were produced that can be used by emergency responders, city planners, and other decision makers to aid in creating and utilizing a flood risk assessment and response plan for the community.