Which of the following is a consequence of increased urbanization on stormwater systems?

Increased urbanization significantly affects stormwater systems, primarily due to the expansion of impervious surfaces like roads, parking lots, and buildings. This development results in a higher volume of stormwater runoff, as rainwater cannot infiltrate into the ground as it would in natural landscapes. Consequently, when precipitation occurs, the runoff volume increases, leading to a greater risk of localized flooding, especially in areas where drainage systems may not be adequately designed to cope with the additional water flow.

The design and functionality of urban stormwater management systems are challenged by this increased runoff. Public infrastructure often struggles to manage stormwater effectively, which can lead to heightened flooding risks during rainfall events. This condition is compounded by the rapid nature of runoff in urban settings, which does not have the time or opportunity to be absorbed back into the ground or be treated before being discharged into waterways.

In contrast, the other options indicate outcomes that are generally not associated with urbanization. For instance, increased vegetation typically decreases runoff and erosion, is not a characteristic of urbanized areas where vegetation is often replaced by impervious surfaces. Additionally, urbanization typically increases sediment transport due to construction activities and altered waterways rather than reducing it. Lastly, urban areas usually experience higher temperatures due to the urban heat