Storm Sandy was a reminder that the United States is vulnerable to significant weather hazards,
and that infrequent but intense flood events can cause significant damage and disruption. In
addition to wind damages and electricity disruptions, the storm’s surge damaged property and
infrastructure in coastal and inlet areas, while the storm’s rains and snowmelt swelled rivers and
creeks. These impacts contributed to public safety concerns and private and public property loss.
Although the storm was not notable for its wind intensity, Sandy’s significant size, its unusually
low atmospheric pressure, and the astronomic high tide combined with other weather systems to
amplify flooding consequences and economic and transportation disruptions. With events like
Storm Sandy, common questions for Congress include: Which federal programs can assist with
flood-fighting? Which federal programs can assist with repairing damaged dunes, levees, and
other flood protection? What are the policy and funding issues that may arise during recovery?