With an average of 847 mm of precipitation per year, the Netherlands is a wet country. Flooded streets and basements caused by heavy rainstorms are what make the Dutch climate so characteristic these days. And according to the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI), annual precipitation will only increase due to climate change.
An everyday problem
Paved surfaces prevent precipitation from penetrating the soil, causing water to remain on the surface. Of course, the sewer system is a lifesaver, but it has a maximum capacity. If it becomes overwhelmed, not only will the streets be flooded, but basements and garages will also be inundated.
Flooding can also occur in unpaved areas. Think of waterlogged gardens and fields, or water damage to buildings and agricultural land. It’s no surprise, then, that flooding is one of the key issues addressed by the government’s Spatial Adaptation Platform.
The Netherlands receives an average of 847 mm of precipitation per year Source: KNMI
Is it going to get any wetter?
Over the past 100 years, the Netherlands has gradually become wetter. The KNMI chart shows a 27% increase in annual precipitation, and according to the Spatial Adaptation platform, climate change will only make the Netherlands wetter. Heavy rainstorms will become even more intense and occur more frequently.
Keep a close eye on the precipitation
It is crucial to prevent the consequences of heavy rainfall, so it is important to understand where water does or does not penetrate the soil. IMAGEMPermeability Monitor provides insight into the distribution of hard and soft surfaces in your area.
You can also see where water can seep through the ground and where it cannot. This gives you insight into the water resistance of the neighborhoods and districts in your municipality, even down to the backyard level.
You will gain insight into the areas of your region that are prone to flooding. With this information, measures can be taken to improve water drainage.
More information
Niels is the Government Market Manager at IMAGEM. He helps government agencies continuously work smarter and more effectively, and fulfills his role by supporting organizations in solving their challenges. Want to learn more? Send Niels an email or send a message via our contact form.
Niels van de Graaf
Government Market Manager
