Hesse in danger: Environmental aid warns of extreme flood risk!

Hesse in danger: Environmental aid warns of extreme flood risk!

The discussion about flood protection in Hesse is gaining momentum after German Environmental Aid (DUH) issued alarming warnings about potential dangers from extreme floods. According to the DUH, tens of thousands of citizens could be affected, especially considering that around 26,400 residential addresses in Hesse are in areas that are considered at risk in the event of a once-in-a-century flood. Statistically speaking, such a flood can be expected every 100 years, but the DUH warns that the intervals could become shorter due to the climate crisis. In this context, the Hessian Environment Minister sharply criticizes the DUH's calculations and emphasizes that a high risk cannot necessarily be derived from the designation of around 4,800 kilometers of river as flood areas.

The debate shows how seriously the consequences of climate change are increasingly being perceived in Germany. Weather extremes such as heavy rain and floods are increasing, and with them the challenges for flood protection. The Environment Ministry highlights that effective water management and measures such as the “sponge city” concept are necessary to adapt to future conditions. Rainwater is stored in unsealed areas, which protects both basements and streets while also storing water for periods of drought.

Responsibility and prevention

The issue of flood protection is not only a task for the authorities, but also requires personal responsibility from citizens and companies. They are asked to adapt their properties according to the possible consequences of flooding. The Hessian Ministry of the Environment offers guidelines for water-sensitive settlement development.

An average of 16 million euros flow into flood protection measures and projects every year. These financial resources are not only cheap, but are also important in terms of prevention. Municipalities benefit from funding, flood forecasts and advice that help them to be better prepared in an emergency.

Climate adaptation on the agenda

In the larger context, climate change plays a crucial role. At the end of 2023, the first nationwide Climate Adaptation Act (KAnG) came into force, which provides a strategic framework for adapting to the climate crisis and obliges the states to develop corresponding concepts. The Federal Environment Ministry has also already initiated measures to adapt to climate change and is calling for a new joint climate adaptation task in the Basic Law. This shows how seriously the federal government is taking adaptation to the difficult climatic conditions.

All in all, one thing is certain: flood protection will continue to be a central issue in Germany, and the current discussions are just the beginning. Residents, communities and the government must work together on solutions to ensure people's safety and infrastructure. The time to set the course for a secure future is now.