River Flood Risk and Adaptation in Europe - Assessment of the Present Status

Abstract

Flood disasters have had a devastating effect worldwide over the past century, both in terms of human suffering and material losses. The study of these events and development of more effective adaptation and mitigation policies has become a priority, both in Europe and other parts of the globe. This paper detects and presents the spatial distribution of flood risks in Europe. The results highlight regions where the threat to the economy from river flood hazard is of major concern.