As climate, demographics and land usage continue to change, tribal communities in Oklahoma are increasingly at risk of severe weather, according to a recent study led by Yang Hong with the University of Oklahoma.According to the study, heavy rainfall is projected to have a 501.1% increased risk for Native Americans by the end of the century. This means that it has a 68% higher risk than the general population in Oklahoma. The research also found that two-year floods are projected to have a 632.
In Red Rock Oklahoma, about 80 miles north of Oklahoma City, is the home of the Otoe-Missouria Tribe. The area is primarily a farming community and it's found itself increasingly battling the effects of natural disasters. A University of Oklahoma study examined these changes and the risk they pose to tribal lands. It suggests that Native American communities will feel the effects in stronger ways than other communities.
While many cities have large stormwater systems or retention ponds, Native American communities often don't. Like many tribal communities, the Otoe-Missouria needs more funding to battle these natural disasters.