Risk assessment for coastal and fluvial floods

To effectively assess flood risk in the Netherlands, it is advisable to start with a broad overview and gradually move to more detailed analysis, to work from coarse to fine. The basic assessment gives a first indication of flood susceptibility but is based on conservative data and often results in over-estimations of risk. However, if the basic assessment using basic data indicates no flood susceptibility, further investigation may not be necessary. However, if there is a potential for exposure to flood, more detailed assessments can be taken to reduce uncertainties, refine conservative estimates if necessary, and gain a precise understanding of flood probability and impact.

This website therefore describes three distinct levels:

  1. Basic assessment: An initial analysis using basic, national-level hazard data to assess flood susceptibility based on conservative data.
  2. Detailed assessment: A scenario-based approach to identify concentration risks within a portfolio.
  3. Tailored assessment: Tailored, site-specific examination of probability and impact, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of flood risk.
Schematic overview of risk assessment, from coarse (basic) to fine (tailored).
Flood risk assessment: from coarse to fine.