An Examination of the Relationship Between Mean Land Elevation Levels and Social Vulnerability: A Case Study of Metropolitan Kansas City

ABSTRACT Areas at low land elevations exhibit increased exposures to flooding. These exposures are exacerbated by the presence of community social vulnerability. This study examines the relationship between mean land elevations and social vulnerability in Metropolitan Kansas City. A database with socio‐demographic information, anthropogenic hazards, and mean elevations was created at the census tract level ( N = 556). The findings suggest that the population aged 25 and over with a bachelor's degree (%), the population density (sq. mi.), and the population under the age of 18 (%) are positive predictors of mean land elevations (ft.). Families living in poverty (%), the minority population (%), and TRI facilities are negative predictors of mean land elevations (ft.). These findings suggest that socially vulnerable populations are at higher risk of flooding and experiencing compound disasters from the disproportionate presence of TRI facilities at lower land elevations. Owner‐occupied housing (%), single family housing (%), median home value (USDs), group quarters, and RCRA hazardous waste sites are not predictors of mean land elevations. Policy implications call for increased community participation in the flood mitigation process through programs like Community Emergency Response Teams and the Community Rating System.