Urban flood resilience with adaptive community approaches: a review

Flooding is a global challenge that poses a significant threat to urban infrastructure and communities. Accelerating urbanisation and population growth have heightened exposure to flood risks, demanding urgent and proactive responses. Consequently, developing flood-resilient urban communities has become a priority in the search for effective flood management. This study reviews the concept of urban flood resilience, focusing on adaptive community approaches and the necessary requirements to ensure communities are prepared for flooding challenges. Comprehensive research was conducted using the Scopus and Web of Science databases, considering articles published between 2014 and 2023. After careful review, 46 articles were selected. Data were extracted, organised, and analysed using a narrative synthesis. The results showed that urban communities require a shift towards flexible and responsive strategies that can adapt to the changing climate and urban landscape. Community-driven strategies and adaptive approaches empower urban communities to develop effective resilience against flooding. Additionally, stakeholder involvement and clearly defined policy pathways can lead to targeted interventions that may reduce vulnerabilities associated with flooding. These findings underscore the crucial role of adaptive management in fostering resilient communities by enhancing adaptive capabilities, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11 and 13, thereby improving urban flood resilience.