Towards measuring community resilience to flood risk: A baseline analysis

Abstract

Flooding, a major hazard exacerbated by climate change, rapid urbanisation, and poor land-use practices, continues to pose challenges for vulnerable coastal communities worldwide. This study offers a baseline assessment of flood resilience in ten communities within Limbe, Cameroon, using the Flood Resilience Measurement for Communities (FRMC) framework. Results show that all communities within the study area face annual flood events, with resilience scores between 25 and 39 (grade ‘C’). The research highlights strengths in education continuity and household preparedness, but also points out critical gaps in natural resources, social and financial investments in early warning systems, and infrastructure development. This pioneering use of the FRMC tool in Cameroon proves its effectiveness in resource-limited settings, offering practical insights for resilience enhancement. Recommended strategies include targeted financial investment, community-based preparedness efforts, leveraging natural capital through ecosystem restoration, and improved infrastructure planning, supporting global goals under SDG 11 for inclusive, safe, and resilient urbanisation. The study lays the groundwork for future resilience assessments and policy development, addressing the urgent need to strengthen adaptive capacities in flood-prone, rapidly urbanising coastal areas.