Indiana communities now have a major resource to help them adapt to the challenges of climate change: the Hoosier Resilience Index.
This innovative online tool, developed by Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute (ERI), provides local governments and residents with detailed, community-specific information about climate vulnerabilities and actionable strategies to address them.
A Tool for Local Climate Preparedness
It includes information on precipitation trends, floodplain maps, and land use patterns for every community in the state. By utilizing publicly available data, local officials can assess their abilities to cope with current and anticipated climate impacts, such as accelerated precipitation and extreme weather events.
Janet McCabe, ERI’s director, explained that the Index allows communities to understand the vulnerabilities they face due to climate change.
“More importantly, it helps them evaluate their preparedness and resilience in the face of these changes.”
Rising Precipitation and Its Impacts
Indiana has undergone a significant rise in average yearly humidity since the 1950s, a trend expected to proceed. Winters and springs are predicted to become wetter—with an average increase of 16% in precipitation—while summers and falls may see reduced rainfall. This uneven distribution poses challenges for agriculture, infrastructure, and public safety.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the past year saw precipitation levels in the contiguous United States exceed historical averages by 6.28 inches. Indiana has not been immune to these changes, as evidenced by delayed planting seasons for corn and soybeans, which disrupted the state’s agricultural industry.
A Localized Approach to Climate Resilience
While broad climate data is widely available, the Index distills this information to the community level, providing actionable insights for local leaders.
“Communities across Indiana are beginning to prioritize resilience,”
said McCabe.
“Flooding has been a wake-up call, highlighting the financial, health, and public safety risks associated with climate change. Our tool provides critical information to help communities prepare effectively.”
The Index compiles data from credible sources such as the Indiana Climate Change Impacts Assessment, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This ensures communities receive accurate, comprehensive insights tailored to their specific needs.
Collaborative Development and Practical Applications
The Environmental Resilience Institute worked closely with state and local officials to design and test the Index. Four pilot communities helped refine the tool, ensuring its practical application in crafting effective resiliency plans. For smaller communities, which often lack access to relevant data, the Index provides a much-needed resource.
“As our environment changes, so must our approach to planning,”
said Noble County plan director Kenneth Hughes.
“The Index helps us evaluate our current plans and identify next steps based on localized risks. It’s an invaluable resource for strengthening infrastructure and building resilience.”
Simple Solutions for Complex Challenges
While some communities may require significant infrastructure projects to address climate vulnerabilities, many can make meaningful progress through smaller, everyday actions. For example, increased street sweeping can prevent storm drains from clogging with leaves, reducing surface flooding during heavy rains.
“Our goal is to help communities understand where they stand and what practical steps they can take to improve their resilience,”
said Andrea Webster, ERI implementation manager.
Free Access and Training Opportunities
The Hoosier Resilience Index is free to use, ensuring accessibility for all Indiana communities. To further support its implementation, the ERI will host training webinars beginning December 2. These sessions will guide users on how to maximize the tool’s potential to safeguard their communities against the evolving challenges of climate change.
As climate impacts become increasingly evident, tools like the Hoosier Resilience Index offer hope and practical solutions for a more resilient future. By empowering local governments and residents, Indiana is taking an essential step toward protecting its communities and ensuring long-term sustainability.
