Hochwasser Threatens 400,000 Lives in Germany

Hochwasser Risks in Germany

In Germany, a new study reveals that nearly 400,000 individuals are directly threatened by hochwasser. Specifically, around 384,000 people are expected to face significant flooding events in the near future, with about 190,800 residents along the Rhine River and its tributaries being particularly vulnerable. Additionally, residents along the Elbe are also at high risk, with roughly 98,800 people identified as especially endangered.

Need for Enhanced Flood Protection

The calculations released today are based on the federal states' plans for flood risk management. The authors warn that changes in the data regarding those affected could fluctuate due to future circumstances. Historical flood events, such as those along the Oder River, indicate that the calculated figures might represent a lower estimate of risk.

Calls for Proactive Measures Against Heavy Rainfall

Researchers from the Institute for Environmental Issues (Ufu) urge for expanded precautions against heavy rainfall, as hochwasser events can often be predicted only in the short term. Having monitoring systems and forecasting models is essential. Hessen serves as a positive example, having developed user-friendly heavy rain hazard maps and a municipal monitoring system that experts believe should be implemented nationwide.

Legislative Actions Needed

Julia Verlinden, deputy chair of the Green Party, refers to the statistics concerning people at risk from hochwasser as alarming. Heavy rainfall is anticipated in parts of Germany again this week, highlighting the need to update flood protection strategies in light of climate change. Besides developing stable levees and extensive flood plains, legal measures are essential. Verlinden advocates for expanding insurance coverage against flood-related elemental damages before the legislative period ends.

Insurance Discussions Stalled

The government has yet to reach an agreement with the states on implementing mandatory insurance against elemental damages. While states push for a broad enough regulation to not overburden renters and homeowners, the Federal Minister of Justice Marco Buschmann (FDP) remains opposed. A potential compromise may allow insurers to provide homeowners with such policies, yet compulsory coverage appears unlikely for now.

In the wake of the catastrophic floods in Ahr and Erft in 2021, total damages exceeded 40 billion euros. Advocates for mandatory insurance argue that such financial burdens can no longer be borne solely by the state, necessitating a distribution of costs.