The research, published in Science Advances, is the largest of its kind and provides a detailed look at the factors influencing both casualties and economic damage.

“Floods will always occur; this threat cannot be eliminated. However, we can learn to cope with it and reduce losses as effectively as possible,” said Dominik Paprotny, PhD, a geographer at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Change Impact Research in Germany and the University of Szczecin, who led the study.

He noted that Europe has seen clear improvements in flood adaptation, with fewer flood-related deaths and losses becoming less severe relative to GDP.

Paprotny emphasized that the key to reducing future flood damage lies in wise adaptation and “giving rivers space,” rather than trying to control floods entirely. “Whoever is at risk of flooding – be it residents or local authorities – must take direct action to limit losses. Our research shows that this can be done effectively,” he said.

The study highlights the importance of early warning systems, which have become increasingly accurate and accessible.

Meteorological and hydrological forecasts now provide timely alerts, allowing authorities and the public to prepare for imminent floods. Professional emergency services, coordinated by crisis management offices in various parts of Europe, translate these warnings into practical action, dispatching rescue teams and distributing equipment where the risk is greatest.

Local adaptation measures also play a critical role, from modifying buildings and infrastructure to stricter regulations for development in flood-prone areas. In addition, temporary flood barrier technology has advanced, with many European cities installing anchor points for rapid deployment, and some even using underground barriers that are activated only during floods.

While retention reservoirs helped reduce flood losses in past decades, they are increasingly being replaced by strategies that restore natural floodplains.

Reservoirs are difficult to maintain, require significant environmental transformation, and pose risks if they fail. Allowing designated agricultural or undeveloped areas to flood naturally is now seen as a more effective and sustainable approach. “Research by my colleagues in Europe has shown that giving water space is – in relation to cost – the most effective solution in the context of future climate change,” Paprotny said.

The analysis also found that climate change affects flood patterns differently across Europe. In Northwestern Europe, including the UK, France, and Germany, extreme river flows are increasing. In Eastern Europe, from Scandinavia to the Balkans, snowmelt floods are decreasing, but heavy rainfall is causing more intense summer floods.

Southern Europe, including Spain and Portugal, has become significantly drier, leading to reduced extreme river flows, though heat waves and wildfires are becoming more common. Rising sea levels along Europe’s coasts are also contributing to more extreme storm floods.

Despite these challenges, the number of deaths caused by floods has dropped significantly, and while absolute economic losses have risen, they are becoming less burdensome relative to overall GDP. Paprotny said that this shows the growing effectiveness of flood adaptation strategies.

“I would suggest we stop trying to control the environment and instead work with it. Instead of trying to prevent floods at all costs, we should focus on preventing the losses people suffer. We need to allow excess water to escape. Decision-makers can largely protect the population and reduce losses, but they will never eliminate floods completely,” he concluded.

Ludwika Tomala (PAP)

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