Why is stormwater management considered important for urban areas?

Stormwater management is crucial for urban areas primarily because it helps minimize flooding and protect water quality. In urban environments, the increased amount of impervious surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, and buildings prevents water from being absorbed into the ground. This leads to a rapid increase in runoff during storms, which can cause flooding in low-lying areas and places that are not designed to handle large volumes of water.

Additionally, stormwater can carry pollutants such as oils, chemicals, sediments, and debris into local waterways, affecting aquatic ecosystems and drinking water supplies. Effective stormwater management practices, such as the implementation of green infrastructure, retention basins, and permeable surfaces, are designed to control runoff, reduce the risk of flooding, and filter pollutants before they reach natural water bodies. This, in turn, contributes significantly to maintaining and improving water quality in urban settings, making it essential for sustainable urban planning and development.