In 2023, Tropical Cyclone Freddy caused severe damage in southern Malawi, flooding much of the lowland area near Lake Chilwa and displacing many residents. This study evaluates long-term, region-specific mitigation strategies to lessen future risks, using a novel approach that combines drone and satellite data, building footprints, and 3D simulations to analyze how building elevation affects flood damage and assess Property-Level Flood Risk Adaptation measures. Results show a significant difference in ground elevation between affected and unaffected buildings, with damaged structures generally at lower levels. The 3D simulation confirmed a water-level rise of approximately 3.0 m caused by Freddy. Scenario analysis indicates that elevating buildings by 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 m could reduce direct flood exposure and 64%, 76%, and 91% of damage, respectively. These insights can inform the development of targeted regional risk-mitigation strategies through Property-Level Flood Risk Adaptation in high-risk areas.
Taghimolla et al. (Fri,) studied this question.