Under the Floods Directive (Directive 2007/60/EC on the assessment and management of flood risks), all EU countries are required to
assess all areas where significant floods could take place
map the flood extent and assets and humans at risk in these areas
take adequate and coordinated measures to reduce this flood risk
The rights of the public to access this information and to have a say in the planning process are also important elements of the Directive.
EU countries are required to create and update Flood Hazard Maps and Flood Risk Maps. Flood Hazard Maps should cover the geographical areas which could be flooded and Flood Risk Maps show the potential adverse consequences associated with these flood scenarios. These maps form the basis for the drafting of flood risk management plans.
Flood risk management is an integral part of integrated river basin management. The Floods Directive is therefore closely coordinated with the Water Framework Directive. In particular, coordinating flood risk management plans, river basin management plans, and public participation procedures.