How at risk am I? - Flooding can be simulated - Rhineland-Palatinate's 3D Flood Simulator Puts Disaster Planning in Residents' Hands

A new online tool in Rhineland-Palatinate is helping residents and local authorities prepare for floods. Called HydroTwin Rhineland-Palatinate, the portal uses interactive 3D simulations to show how floodwaters could spread in any chosen location. Since its launch in December 2023, uptake among municipalities has been strong, with many using it to improve disaster planning.

The portal lets users explore realistic flood scenarios based on their address or area. They can select extreme weather events, such as an hour-long downpour dumping 80 to 94 millimetres of rain—figures that vary by region. Simulations then display flow directions, potential blockages, water levels, and colour-coded risk zones, with red roofs marking the most dangerous spots.

Homeowners can check where their property might be vulnerable and plan escape routes in advance. Municipalities, meanwhile, rely on the tool to refine emergency response strategies, guide urban development, and speed up decisions on flood defences. The system pulls together digital terrain maps, land-use data, rainfall records, and hydrological research to ensure accuracy.

Further upgrades are planned. By the end of 2024, river flooding scenarios will be added. Real-time data integration is expected by late 2027, making the simulations even more precise. Similar systems, like ReKIS Kommunal in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia, or KLAUS in Duisburg, are already supporting climate adaptation efforts in other parts of Germany.

The goal is clear: make flood risks visible and actionable. By putting detailed, localised information at people's fingertips, the portal aims to reduce damage and save lives as extreme weather becomes more frequent.

The tool is now available to all residents and councils in Rhineland-Palatinate. Its simulations help individuals assess risks and prepare, while authorities use it to strengthen flood defences and response plans. With ongoing expansions, the system will cover more flood types and offer up-to-date warnings in the coming years.