Estimation of the economic impact caused by flooding events in dwellings in Sinaloa, Mexico

Abstract

In Sinaloa, Mexico, rainfall is intense and can cause floodings in rural and urban areas. Although the risks cannot disappear entirely, deficient urban planning, poor drainage system, and accumulation of waste increase the vulnerability of the population, generating inequality derived from urban conditions. Through 160 surveys applied to dwellers in three of the most important cities of Sinaloa: Los Mochis, Mazatlán, and Culiacán, this work evaluates the losses suffered per household as a result of a flood incident. Losses of at least $70 256 Mexican pesos (3800 USD considering 18.00MXN/USD currency exchange in 09/06/23) per home were estimated, in addition to a significant devaluation of the properties. The study concludes that a socio-environmental justice approach should be adopted to ensure equal vulnerability reduction for all families, instead of the current approach of compensation and transfers which solves nothing in the long-term.