Exploring Causal Factors that Impact Local Climate Variability to Enhance Community Preparedness and Mitigation Strategies for Coastal Small and Medium-Sized Cities (SMSC) and Counties

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the causal factors affecting local climate variability in coastal small and medium-sized cities (SMSC) and counties, aiming to enhance community preparedness and formulate effective mitigation strategies. It comprises an introductory chapter, a concluding analysis, and four case studies. Chapter 2 examines rapid urbanization in the coastal city of Thiruvananthapuram (TMC), India, revealing that increased urban land cover, driven by reduced vegetation, contributes to rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns. Recommendations include enhancing green cover and reducing impervious surfaces to mitigate these effects. Chapter 3 analyzes rural migration and settlement patterns in the Southeastern United States (SE US) coastal SMSC ad counties, highlighting the dual pressures of economic growth and environmental vulnerability in areas like Norfolk, Virginia (VA), and Collier County, Florida (FL). It emphasizes the necessity for sustainable urban planning to address infrastructure strains and natural hazards. Chapter 4 discusses lessons learned from Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Ian, emphasizing the importance of enhanced building codes, emergency management, and community engagement for disaster preparedness in coastal counties. Chapter 5 explores building volume distributions in Collier County and Norfolk using validation techniques for power law and log-normal distribution, offering insights for urban planning and flood risk management. The dissertation underscores the interconnectedness of these studies and the need for holistic, data-driven approaches to climate change mitigation. By advocating for innovative technologies and community involvement, it highlights the urgent need for resilient and sustainable urban environments amidst ongoing population growth and climate challenges. Future research should build on these findings to further address the complexities facing coastal communities globally.