A new study led by the UC Santa Cruz Center for Coastal Climate Resilience (CCCR) and East Carolina University (ECU) has found that mangroves significantly reduced storm surges and property damages during Hurricanes Irma in 2017 and Ian in 2022.
Researchers used industry models to price the benefit of mangroves during these hurricanes, valuing them at $725 million and $4.1 billion, respectively.
In industry risk models, mangroves significantly reduce surge and flood damages to properties built behind forests, while properties built in front of mangroves face increased risks.
Please note that properties built behind mangroves have reduced risks, whereas those in front of mangroves have increased risks.
The study highlights the importance of mangroves in reducing property damages during hurricanes.
Author's summary: Mangroves reduce property damages in hurricanes.