Flood protection and heavy rain prevention

Statistics show that the number of extreme weather events is increasing worldwide. As consequences of climate change, droughts and floods affect our lives directly. In Germany, extreme rainfall events in particular have led to severe flooding in the recent past. The events of July 2021 showed how quickly rivers can burst their banks and destroy entire communities.

But urban flash floods can also occur far away from streams when sewers are pushed to their limits by heavy rain. The accumulating water masses cannot be drained quickly enough via the existing drainage systems and therefore make their way through the streets. This can lead to considerable damage to persons and property within a short time.

Effective protection against heavy rain is necessary

In order to prevent damage, the implementation of effective measures against heavy rain is required at the municipal level. But where is the best place to start? Which measures have the greatest effect? And what does effective flood protection look like?

The list of possible protective measures against flash floods is long. A holistic approach is essential as preventive measures have to be considered in all urban, transportation and green space planning.

Recommendations for action on flood protection

For this purpose, we generally recommend, wherever possible, near-to-nature management of precipitation water. In the best-case scenario, construction projects are planned in a way that avoids surfaces which generate runoff while at the same time rainwater is used sensibly. In addition, the decentralised retention of rainwater, the creation of evaporation areas as well as local infiltration provide relief for public drainage systems. Furthermore, centralised retention and a delayed discharge of the accumulated precipitation water also constitutes an effective method of flood protection.

Prevention of flash floods: 4 building blocks

There are several ways to identify and protect against risks from heavy rain or flash flooding. The following building blocks form the basis for a holistic solution strategy:

1. Drainage

• Systematic surface water drainage
• Emergency drainage, e.g. via streets and walkways
• Streetscape design that reduces or diverts runoff

2. Area management

• Creation of retention areas
• Temporary use of urban (street) spaces as retention areas
• Multifunctional use of green and open spaces

3. Infiltration/Evaporation

• Creation of better conditions for the infiltration and evaporation of precipitation water
• Reduction of runoff-generating surfaces

4. Technical flood protection measures

• Customised structural protection measures for buildings and residential areas

We are happy to support you in designing your personal protection strategy and are active with our team for private individuals, municipalities and businesses. Do you have questions about our services, or can we assist you in planning protective measures? Please do not hesitate to contact us.

Further information about climate change and its consequences can be found in this Wikipedia article.