FLOOD RISK AND SOCIAL VULNERABILITY IN WALTON COUNTY, FL: AN INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT FOR URBAN RESILIENCE

Walton County, Florida, a low-lying coastal region, is highly susceptible to flooding, sea level rise, and storm surges. These hazards disproportionately impact communities, with socially vulnerable populations being less likely to recover from disaster events. This study presents an integrated assessment of vulnerability to flooding, considering natural hazards such as a 1-day 100-year storm event, a 3-foot sea level rise scenario, and storm surge risk, combined with a social vulnerability analysis, aiming to identify the most socially vulnerable communities within Walton County's flood-prone areas. Additionally, the integrated analysis takes into consideration a priority of land use approach, identifying facilities that are critical or essential for an emergency response and recovery. The study also recommends a series of projects, including green, gray, and hybrid solutions, as well as policy changes to mitigate flood risks and enhance resilience within these communities.