Flood risk in a changing climate

Pluvial flooding now accounts for much of the flood risk in many regions. Traditional flood maps do not always capture this threat

THIS year’s flood events illustrate the accelerating trend of hydrological intensification driven by ongoing global warming. A preliminary global review shows extreme and often record-breaking rainfall on every continent, with many events producing exceptional sub-daily intensities. Crucially, severe flooding is increasingly occurring in locations not historically classified as high risk, prompting renewed scrutiny of exposure and preparedness.