Wiesent plans flash flood risk management: safety for everyone!

Wiesent plans flash flood risk management: safety for everyone!

On November 26, 2025, an information event to present a new flash flood concept took place in the Wiesent parish hall. This event attracted around 45 citizens who wanted to learn about the dangers and protective measures associated with flash floods. The presentation was led by the engineers Mr. Eckl and Mr. Kuchenreuter from the engineering firm ebb, who presented the results of previous analyzes and possible protective measures against flash flood events. In particular, it was emphasized that heavy rain events cause large amounts of precipitation in a short period of time and are usually localized.

Flash flood risk management is designed to reduce risks and educate the population about potential hazards. The event was a platform to inform citizens in Wiesent about flood protection and heavy rain risks provided by various ministries and authorities. The difference between heavy rain and floods was also explained: While floods are caused by prolonged rain on large bodies of water, flash floods occur due to sudden and intense rainfall.

Protective measures and risk areas

The infrastructure of Wiesent, especially the canal system, is designed for precipitation events up to class N3 or N5, but not for sudden and extreme flash flood events. In order to counteract the dangers of flash floods, the concept provides for specific measures such as the development of retention basins and adjustments to the canal system. The total costs of these measures amount to around 2,270,000 euros.

The identification of risk areas is another important component of the flash flood concept. In Wiesent, the Kruckenberg, Hermannsberg, Petersberg and Ettersdorf areas in particular have been identified as critical. Mayor Stefan Lederwascher and other speakers pointed out that such exceptional heavy rain events in the past have led to significant damage to the structural infrastructure, which underlines the urgency of the issue.

Personal responsibility and prevention

In addition to the municipal measures, the speakers also emphasized the need for private provision. Citizens are invited to take their own protective measures, especially for new buildings and existing properties. The recommendation to take out elementary insurance and take preventative measures is strongly expressed.

The flash flood prevention concept includes clear rules of conduct, such as heeding weather warnings and avoiding areas at risk. It is also pointed out that there is no legally binding obligation to provide public protection, so personal responsibility is required. Citizens should have access to information to assess their vulnerability and take appropriate precautions.

The developments regarding flash flood risk management in Wiesent are part of a larger strategy supported by the Free State of Bavaria. This not only includes the creation of protection concepts, but also the provision of financial help through various funding programs. This is intended to help municipalities develop and implement effective risk reduction measures to minimize the impact of future heavy rain events.

For further information on the subject of flash floods and their risk management, please visit the websites of Wiesent, Flintsbach and the Bavarian State Office for the Environment: Wiesent, Flintsbach, Bavarian State Office for the Environment.