An exploratory model to characterize the vulnerability of coastal buildings to storm surge flooding in Miami-Dade County, Florida

Miami-Dade County is highly susceptible to storm surge flooding. The current Federal Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), used determine flood insurance rates for buildings, an excellent resource yet lacks attributes that could provide a finer-resolution of actual vulnerability building level characteristics from one parcel the next within same zone. This study developed novel Storm Surge Building Vulnerability (SSBV) model initial protocols developing county maps. was tested on transversal sections 1254 buildings selected Miami Beach, East Little Havana, and Sweetwater. Buildings in were determined be moderately vulnerable High-rises, masonry whose first habitable space elevated above ground constitute majority low very but 97% high are between 0 2 story tall three-quarters these have slab-on-grade finished floor elevation. Our exposes limitations FIRM designated hazard zones: zone exhibit different characteristics. indicates importance creating consider upgrading rate requirement zonal categories individual level.