Flood protection 2.0 - With geodata against the next flood
23.04.2025, Karlsruhe/ Frankfurt: Extreme weather events, heavy rainfall and flooding - terms that have increasingly made headlines in recent years. Municipalities are now faced with the major challenge of effectively protecting their citizens and infrastructure from flooding. The answer to this challenge lies not only in stronger dams or improved pumping stations, but above all in intelligently used geodata and digital technologies.
Geodata as the key to prevention
Modern geographic information systems (GIS) and digital terrain models provide precise information on which areas are particularly at risk of flooding. With the help of digital twins, different flood scenarios can be simulated virtually - a crucial prerequisite for planning protective measures early and effectively. Municipalities such as Cologne and Dresden are already using such digital twins to continuously optimize their flood protection concepts.
Earth observation and real-time data
Another significant advance comes from space: Earth observation satellites from the European Copernicus program provide images and data that document changes in river courses, soil moisture and water levels almost in real time. This enables local authorities to react more quickly and better assess crisis situations. During the flood disaster in the Ahr valley in 2021, for example, this data was used to identify where improved protective measures would be necessary in the future.
A concrete example is provided by the Baden-Württemberg State Office for Geoinformation and Rural Development, which impressively demonstrated on World Water Day 2025 how precise terrain models and geodata can be used to identify risk areas at an early stage and take appropriate precautionary measures. Click here for the data and map service of the state office.
BEAM data for targeted risk assessment
Another important building block in flood risk management is the use of the BEAM data set (Basic European Assets Map). BEAM provides detailed digital mapping that shows the monetary value of assets per unit area (EUR/m²). Combined with data on flood depths and damage functions, this enables a precise assessment of potential damage caused by flooding. This data basis helps municipalities and authorities to specifically identify risk areas and effectively plan protective measures. One example of this is the use of BEAM data in North Rhine-Westphalia during the flood disaster of 2021, where data collection enabled targeted analysis and planning.
The integration of BEAM data into flood risk management thus provides a valuable basis for planning and implementing effective protective measures. At INTERGEO, local authorities will have the opportunity to find out about the use of such innovative geodata solutions and learn from best practices.
Sponge cities and AI: a visionary approach to flood protection
Another innovative concept that is becoming increasingly important is sponge cities. This concept combines sustainable urban planning with state-of-the-art technology. Cities such as Darmstadt are already pursuing the approach of decentralized water management by storing rainwater and using it for dry periods. One example of this is the “Smart Water” project in Darmstadt, which focuses on water-sensitive urban development and manages water intelligently and sustainably. The aim is to optimize the water cycles in the district and to keep water in the city in a targeted manner in order to avoid flooding and to be able to use it during periods of drought.
The Fraunhofer IAO is also setting innovative standards with the RIWWER research project in Duisburg. Here, AI technologies are being used to intelligently control water volumes in the sewer network and react to impending overloads at an early stage. Comprehensive sensor monitoring and AI-controlled water distribution enable water gates to be opened in good time and excess water to be directed into rainwater retention basins, thus effectively protecting the infrastructure.
Legal basis: The new Flood Protection Act
In response to the increasing number of flood events, the Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUV) has presented the new Flood Protection Act III. This law creates an important legal basis to better protect people, settlements and infrastructure from flood damage in the long term. Key points include local precautionary concepts for heavy rainfall events, stricter requirements for the planning and construction of infrastructure and buildings, as well as accelerated planning and approval procedures for protective measures. Further information on the Flood Protection Act III can be found in the current BMUV information paper on flood protection.
Why is INTERGEO so important for local authorities?
As the world's leading trade fair for geodesy, geoinformation and land management, INTERGEO is a must-attend event for political decision-makers and urban and regional planners. Here, local authorities can find out first-hand how they can develop next-generation flood protection concepts using modern geodata technology. Innovative solutions ranging from early flood warning systems and digital terrain models to the latest drone and satellite data will be presented in a clear way.
Networking and knowledge transfer
In addition to technical innovations, INTERGEO offers municipalities and cities a unique opportunity to exchange ideas directly with experts and colleagues. Practical examples and workshops provide valuable inspiration for their own flood protection concepts. Political decision-makers will receive the necessary tools to prepare their communities proactively and based on data for extreme weather events.
Take the opportunity to obtain comprehensive information at INTERGEO - because the next flood won't wait.
.jpg)
