Is Canada ready for 'new reality' of flash floods?

Ryan Ness of the Canadian Climate Institute says he's been following the "terrible tragedy" of deadly flash flooding unfolding in Texas, where more than 100 people have died.

But he's also worried Canada isn't doing enough to prevent such disasters here, saying the country needs to invest in flood mapping, infrastructure and early warning systems.

Flood warning systems are also needed to help people in the path of flash floods "prepare or get away, if they can," while long-term infrastructure upgrades are needed to protect risk zones.

The raging flash floods in Texas — among the worst in the United States in decades — slammed into camps and homes along the Guadalupe River before daybreak Friday. Some survivors were found clinging to trees.

The disaster has put a focus on both the risk of flash flooding as well as how to predict or prevent it.

Picture Courtesy: AP Photo/Eli Hartman