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How to protect houses from floods (and other disasters)

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Julia Merk
March 20, 2026

After hurricanes, floods, or wildfires, we often see “miracle houses” going viral – standing strong while others break. What’s the secret behind their survival?

From hurricane‑proof round houses that redirect wind, to wildfire‑resistant designs using non‑combustible materials, to floating "amphibious" homes inspired by Indigenous communities — there are surprising architecture solutions that help buildings survive extreme weather. Smart construction, updated building codes, and even neighborhood‑wide planning can dramatically increase safety. And many of these resilience measures are far more affordable than most people think.

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