Long flood events likely to be more frequent in future

Climate crisis - Long flood events likely to be more frequent in future

As a consequence of the floods, experts are calling for a rethink of flood protection. "In the course of climate change, where flood processes will change, we will certainly see other types of floods in the future," said Ralf Merz, hydrologist at the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research in Halle (Saale), on Deutschlandfunk radio. "Such long flood events will certainly occur more often in the future."

Thousands of helpers have been working in several federal states for days. Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia are particularly affected. Much of the damage could be avoided, said the hydrologist. According to Merz, consideration should be given to whether the current flood protection system still works. "Because perhaps what we have learned from the past is not always a good measure for the future."

The expert pointed out, for example, that there are now far fewer floodplains - i.e. natural floodplains. At the same time, the expert pointed out: "Of course, we will never have one hundred percent flood protection. It is not financially or technically feasible and the landscape cannot be converted."

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1. Despite Germany's efforts in flood protection, regions like Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia are currently grappling with the aftermath of the bad weather-induced floods.
2. Speaking on Deutschlandfunk radio, Ralf Merz, a hydrologist from the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research - UFZ in Halle (Saale), Germany, warned that as climate change progresses, long flood events will become increasingly frequent.
3. Merz emphasized the importance of reevaluating Germany's flood protection strategies, as the current methods may not adequately address the changes brought about by climate change.
4. The hydrologist highlighted that reducing the amount of natural floodplains has become a common practice, which may not necessarily prevent floods but might be an outdated strategy for the future.
5. The expert acknowledged that achieving 100% flood protection is not feasible, both financially and technically, as well as environmentally.
6. As climate change exacerbates flooding and extreme weather events, key attention should be given to improving flood protection strategies and adapting to future climate conditions, stated Merz.
7. In response to the current flooding crisis, authorities in Saxony-Anhalt, for instance, are considering floodplain restoration projects to help mitigate future flood risks, as reported by Deutschlandfunk.
8. As the climate crisis unfolds,ِ it is crucial for Germany and other countries to invest in advanced flood protection measures and sustainable development, prioritizing the well-being and safety of their communities.

Source: www.stern.de