Persistent Flooding poses continuous danger to numerous tens of thousands
Approximately 384,000 individuals in Germany are at risk of being affected by floods in the near future, according to a recent study. The Rhine and its tributaries, as well as the Elbe river, are particularly vulnerable areas. The researchers are urging for enhanced safety measures due to the impending threats.
The report, released by the Independent Institute for Environmental Issues (UfU) on behalf of the Green parliamentary group, highlights that 190,800 residents along the Rhine and its surrounding areas, and 98,800 residents along the Elbe, are specifically in danger.
The data, drawn from flood risk management plans by the federal states, is subject to change due to potential future modifications. Previous flood incidents, such as those in the Oder, suggest that the estimated impact may be an underestimation.
Another study conducted by the insurance industry (GDV) in February revealed that over 300,000 buildings in Germany could be at risk from flooding.
Scientists advocate for precautions
Given the likelihood of heavy rainfall, the UfU researchers underline the importance of expanding existing protective measures. They explain that although heavy rain events are short-term predictable, the development of monitoring systems and forecasting models remains crucial.
The German state of Hesse is serving as a model in this regard. User-friendly heavy rain hazard maps have been created, and a communal monitoring system is proposed for nationwide implementation, recommend the experts.
Julia Verlinden, deputy faction leader of the Greens, voiced concern over the potential flood victims, referring to the "alarming figures." Heavy precipitation is expected in certain parts of Germany this week, making it "high time to adjust flood protection to the challenges of the climate crisis" and safeguard people more effectively.
Apart from enhanced precautions like stable dikes and extensive floodplains, legislative measures are necessary: The insurance coverage for elemental damage caused by flooding should be expanded during this legislative period, advocated Verlinden. "Unchecked, the climate crisis will not be financially sustainable."
The introduction of mandatory insurance remains uncertain
To date, the federal government and the states have yet to reach a consensus on the implementation of mandatory insurance for elemental damage. While the states are advocating for a comprehensive mandatory insurance plan that would not financially burden tenants and homeowners, Federal Minister of Justice Marco Buschmann opposes such a move.
A possible compromise had emerged recently, suggesting that insurers could be obligated to offer homeowners such a policy. At present, however, no obligation to purchase such a policy exists.
Post-flood damage in the Ahr and Erft regions in 2021 exceeded 40 billion euros. Supporters of mandatory insurance argue that the state cannot afford such sums alone, and that the financial burden must be redistributed.
The following is added to the ongoing discussions: The researchers from the UfU suggest incorporating the development of advanced monitoring systems and forecasting models as part of the enhanced safety measures to manage future flood risks.
Amidst the looming threats, Julia Verlinden, from the Greens, emphasizes the need for legislative measures, such as expanding insurance coverage for flood-related damage, to cope with the financial implications of the climate crisis.
