The challenge
The aim of this project is to review and update the flood hazard maps and flood risk maps for Poland.
The aim of this project is to review and update the flood hazard maps and flood risk maps for Poland.
The project required the involvement of a large number of experts – Arcadis had an appropriate team of experts and the required knowledge base at its disposal.
Developing and updating flood hazard maps and flood risk maps has a key impact on the safety of inhabitants and material resources in the areas concerned.
Arcadis, as the Consortium partner, implemented a project commissioned by Krajowy Zarząd Gospodarki Wodnej Wody Polskie (Polish water management authority), aimed at reviewing and updating flood hazard maps and flood risk maps for Poland. Our company was responsible for the Water Region of the Upper Vistula River. The studies are a key contribution to flood risk management and reducing the consequences of flooding.
The scale of the project is impressive, covering the entire country. It is implemented by the Consortium which, apart from Arcadis, includes the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (Consortium Leader) and MGGP S.A. The Water Region of the Upper Vistula River, which was implemented by Arcadis, is one of the areas in Poland with the highest flood risk – losses after flooding in 1997, 2001 and 2010 are estimated at over PLN 14 billion. The analyzed rivers in this area constitute about 30% of the length of all rivers for which the updated maps have been created.
The working methodology assumed the creation of four flood range scenarios – scenarios with a low (once every 500 years), medium (once every 100 years) and high (once every 10 years) flood risk, as well as a scenario of damage or destruction of banks for the areas where the rivers have flood banks. The second component of the project is the development of flood risk maps that indicate the number of people at risk of flooding and the potential material losses resulting from this.
Developing and updating flood hazard maps and flood risk maps has a key impact on the safety of inhabitants and material resources in the areas covered by the studies. They are the basis for planning further action – establishing land development plans by local governments or planning investments.