The Misleading Name That Confuses Millions The term "100-year flood" sounds like a once-in-a-century event, doesn't it?

ST. LOUIS — Fifteen years ago, after the Midwest was swamped with what was pronounced a "100-year" or even a "500-year" flood, some residents figured that they would never again see such a disaster.

New developments in Brunswick County will soon be held to a higher standard of flood protection, as local officials overhaul ...