City of Irvine
2020 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 4-6 Critical Facilities and Facilities of Concern (500-year Flood)
Number of Facilities
Category
Potential Loss**
Critical
Concern
City Vital Operations
-
-
$0
City Community Centers
1
-
$462,067
City Resident Services
1
-
$2,148,923
City Recreation Support
-
2
$ 1,499,624
Bridges
4
-
$8,450,960
Schools*
-
-
N/A
Total
6
2
$12,561,574
* Replacement Values unavailable
** Based on the City of Irvine insured replacement values
Social Threat
The threat of a flood will primarily affect those residents living within the 100-year and 500-year flood zones. Many of these zones are located along drainages within the City. Floodwaters in these areas are anticipated to rise to more than a maximum of one foot. Flooding of this type would likely inundate curb cuts as well as sidewalks to some extent. Any people in Irvine who walk or bike as their main form of transportation may encounter greater difficulties with their mobility if they do not have access to an alternative means of transportation. Seniors, persons with disabilities, and low-income persons are those most likely to be threatened. Table 4-7 shows the proportions of Irvine’s vulnerable populations who are likely to face a greater threat from a flood event in the City. Based on the analysis in Table 4-6, median household income in the 100-year flood zone is significantly higher than the citywide average. In addition, households with one member aged 65+ are significantly lower (4.8%) than the citywide average (19.5%). The demographics for the 500-year flood zone are like the 100-year flood zone statistics, with exception to a lower median household income and a higher percentage of households with one member aged 65+. Additionally, persons who are experiencing homelessness may be caught outside during flood conditions without any shelter. Though floodwaters in Irvine are not expected to exceed a depth of one foot, even a floodwater depth of six inches may render any makeshift structures uninhabitable during the flood event. Possessions such as sleeping bags or electronic devices may be damaged or swept away by the floodwaters.
Other Threats
Flooding may temporarily stop any type of transportation in the City. Debris carried by floodwaters can block roadways, hinder access for vehicles, and potentially affect emergency response services. Rushing water only one foot deep is enough to carry small vehicles. A severe flood situation where the maximum anticipated flood depth of one foot is realized may prevent people who own smaller vehicles from driving to work, leading to reduced economic activity. Severe flooding that causes serious damage to homes and businesses may also result in reduced economic activity until repair work is completed.
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