About this lesson
A closer look
Investigate why the remnants of Hurricane Ida caused severe flooding along Philadelphia’s Schuylkill River in 2021. The lesson introduces computer flood modeling, saturated soil, paved surfaces, and flood tipping points. Students draw a river city and propose ways to protect important places during a major storm.
Suggested grade level
Grades 6–8 · Grades 9–12
Suggested teaching range based on the reading, vocabulary, and classroom activity. Younger students may benefit from teacher-guided reading.
Source material
Xuan, D., Hsieh, M. A., Pongeluppe, L. S., Weaver, M. M., Mann, M. E., Jerolmack, D. J., & Ulloa, H. N. (2026). Climate extremes and urbanization drive flood tipping points at the city–river interface. npj Natural Hazards, 3, Article 20.
