Floodmanagement

Flood management is an integrated process to reduce flood risk by combining structural and non-structural measures with forecasting, preparedness, response, and recovery planning. It seeks to minimize loss of life and property, maintain essential services, and support economic stability in flood-prone areas. It involves hazard assessment, risk analysis, and decision-making across sectors and scales.

Non-structural measures include land use planning and zoning to avoid high-risk areas, building codes and floodproofing, insurance and financial instruments, public education, and early warning systems. Structural measures include dams, reservoirs, levees, floodwalls, upgraded channels, drainage networks, pumping stations, and retention basins. Structural works reduce flood peaks but require maintenance and can alter risk patterns.

Effective flood management relies on accurate forecasting and monitoring, real-time river and rainfall data, hydrological modeling, and timely alerts. Preparedness and response plans cover evacuation, emergency services, and post-flood recovery. An integrated approach also emphasizes nature-based solutions such as green infrastructure, wetlands restoration, permeable surfaces, and urban green spaces to absorb runoff and enhance resilience. Governance, funding, stakeholder engagement, and cross-border cooperation are essential, as is alignment with broader disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation frameworks.