Concept for a Web-based Information System for Flood Management

Recent emergency flood situations at European rivers have revealed the demand for better and in-time information for citizens in flood prone areas about flood development, as well as better coordination of resources and actions during pre-flood phases and its critical stage. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has a large potential to improve the situation. Decisions may be supported by information about resources available at the region and national level, by information about means and access to critical locations at the prevention as well as the evacuation phases, and by including citizens as well as managers into one common information and communication process. The paper outlines the potential of ICT for these aspects. Copyright Springer 2006