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<br />Ramsey County | Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan 56 <br />Based on available data and stakeholder input, there have been no significant developments or land use <br />changes since the last plan update that have increased or decreased the overall risk or exposure to this <br />hazard. <br />3.8.7.3 Environment <br />Detrimental environmental effects of flooding can include soil and bank erosion, bed erosion, siltation or <br />landslides. It can damage vegetation and pollutants carried by flood water can impact on water quality, <br />habitats and flora and fauna. Flooding also brings with it the potential for contamination that leads to <br />waterborne diseases, as well as hazardous material, raw sewage, and debris contamination. Flood <br />waters often pollute drinking water supplies. When flood waters recede, toxic mold may remain, which <br />can increase incidences of asthma and other respiratory distress. Flooding can however play a beneficial <br />role in natural habitats. <br />3.8.7.4 County and Community Operations <br />Essential facilities encounter the same impacts as other buildings within the flood boundary: structural <br />failure, extensive water damage to the facility, and loss of facility functionality (i.e. a damaged police <br />station will no longer be able to serve the community). However, none of Ramsey County’s essential <br />facilities (care facilities, fire stations, police stations and schools) included in the 2019 Hazus analysis are <br />located within the flood boundary. <br />3.8.8 CONSEQUENCE ASSESSMENT <br />Impact on the Public <br />• Risk of drowning, injury, or death due to sudden and fast-moving floodwaters. <br />• Displacement of residents, leading to temporary or permanent relocation and the loss of <br />personal property. <br />• Health risks from contaminated water, including waterborne diseases and hazardous materials. <br />• Disruption of daily life, including access to transportation, healthcare, and basic services. <br />Impact on Responders <br />• Increased danger to emergency responders operating in hazardous conditions, including swift <br />water, debris, and unstable structures. <br />• Overextension of resources and personnel due to the immediate and widespread nature of the <br />response required. <br />• Challenges in coordinating rescue and relief efforts, particularly in rapidly changing flood <br />conditions and possible damage to roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure. <br />Continuity of Operations <br />• Disruption of essential services, including power outages, water supply interruption, and <br />communication failures. <br />• Challenges in maintaining public safety and order, particularly if critical infrastructure is <br />compromised.