The Challenge of Halting Construction in Climate-Prone Areas

Local governments in the United States are grappling with the dilemma of whether to build homes in areas at high risk of climate-fueled disasters such as floods, wildfires, and droughts. While there is a pressing need for more housing and property tax revenue, the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events cannot be ignored. California, with its expensive housing and wildfire risk, is facing challenges in determining where to build. Arizona, on the other hand, is dealing with water scarcity and the need for growth. Local governments are considering limits on homebuilding, but the decisions ultimately fall to them, and there are few statewide laws addressing development in high-risk zones.