The 1937 Ohio River Flood and Maine's 2024 Coastal Crisis Both In January

Ohio Flood of 1937 During the Great DepressionPhoto byTruflix Network

In early January 2024, Maine's coastlines were ravaged by a severe storm, causing unprecedented flooding and evoking memories of one of the worst natural disasters in American history - the 1937 Ohio River flood.

This recent calamity in Maine, much like the disaster that struck over eight decades ago, serves as a powerful reminder of nature's relentless force. As communities along the Maine coast grapple with the aftermath, a look back at the 1937 flood reveals striking parallels and enduring lessons.

The Ohio River flood of 1937 stands as one of the most destructive natural disasters in American history. In late January and February of that year, torrential rains caused the Ohio River to swell beyond its banks, inundating cities from Pittsburgh to Cairo, Illinois. The flood was catastrophic: 385 lives were lost, over one million people were displaced, and property damages soared to $500 million - equivalent to $10.2 billion today.

The flood unfolded over several weeks. Water levels began to rise on January 5, and by January 18, homes were submerged as the river overflowed. Near-record rainfalls from January 13 to 24 exacerbated the situation. The crisis peaked on January 23 and 24, when martial law was declared in Evansville, Indiana, as water levels hit 54 feet.

The 1937 flood was a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability and power. It reshaped federal flood control policy and left a lasting impact on the Ohio River communities.

1937 flood along Ohio RiverPhoto byTruflix Network

In a haunting echo of the past, Maine is facing its own battle against nature's fury starting early in 2024. A significant storm led to historic high water levels and widespread coastal flooding, particularly impacting the areas from York to Waldo counties. The storm surge, intensified by strong onshore winds, coincided with high tide, exacerbating the flooding and resulting in severe damage to infrastructure, homes, and historic buildings.

Significant rain, wind, and flooding have once again ravaged our state – this time our small communities up and down the coast. The damage we are seeing is devastating, from working waterfronts, to small businesses, to public roadways and more, said Governor Mills.

The situation was dire. Portland Harbor's water level was forecasted to reach 14.3 feet, the highest since records began in 1912. The damage was extensive, with several areas witnessing destruction of historic significance and necessitating emergency rescues. In the face of this adversity, state officials, including Governor Mills, urged preparation and caution, underscoring the region's vulnerability to such catastrophic events.

We will continue to work closely with local officials to assess and repair damage as quickly as possible and to seek any and all available Federal support. I urge Maine people – especially those along our working waterfronts – to report their damage,” the Governor continued. My Administration will use this information and other estimates collected by MEMA to request a Disaster Declaration from President Biden as soon as possible, which, if granted will help unlock important Federal funding to support our recovery.

The 1937 Ohio River flood and Maine's 2024 coastal crisis, though separated by nearly a century, share striking similarities. Both events were marked by unprecedented water levels and widespread destruction, challenging the resilience of affected communities. The Ohio River flood inundated vast regions, leaving a trail of homelessness and devastation. Similarly, Maine's coastline was battered, leading to the loss of historic structures and necessitating emergency responses.

However, the differences are equally telling. The 1937 disaster spurred major changes in flood control and disaster response policies, reflecting the learning curve in managing natural catastrophes. In contrast, the Maine flooding highlights ongoing struggles with climate change and coastal management, underscoring the need for contemporary solutions to evolving environmental challenges.

These events, when examined side by side, underline the recurring nature of such disasters and the importance of historical lessons in shaping modern responses.

This recent calamity in Maine not only parallels the 1937 Ohio River flood in terms of its widespread impact but also highlights the ongoing challenge of coastal communities in adapting to increasingly severe weather events exacerbated by climate change.