Hochwasserrichtlinie

Hochwasserrichtlinie, in English the EU Floods Directive (Directive 2007/60/EC), is a European Union framework aimed at reducing flood risk through systematic assessment and management. It applies to all EU Member States and covers river basins and coastal areas that are at risk of flooding. The directive creates obligations to identify areas at risk and to develop measures to mitigate potential impacts on health, environment, economy, and cultural heritage.

Key obligations include a preliminary flood risk assessment to identify areas with significant flood risk; the development of flood hazard maps (showing potential flood extent, depth, and velocity) and flood risk maps (illustrating potential damages and affected populations, economic value, and environmental impact); and the preparation of flood risk management plans designed to reduce and manage flood risks through prevention, protection, and preparedness measures. Plans address both structural measures (such as barriers) and non-structural measures (such as land-use planning, early warning systems, and public awareness).

Timelines established by the directive required that Member States produce preliminary risk assessments by 2011, hazard and risk maps by 2013, and flood risk management plans by 2015. These instruments are to be updated at regular intervals and coordinated where basins cross borders.

Implementation is carried out within the river basin district framework mandated by EU water policy, with national authorities responsible for preparing and implementing plans, ensuring public participation and cross-border cooperation for shared basins. Data and maps are often publicly accessible to improve transparency.

Impact and status: the Hochwasserrichtlinie has contributed to standardized flood data collection, risk communication, and coherent planning across Europe, although execution varies among member states depending on resources and governance. It remains integrated with broader EU water policy and climate adaptation strategies.