Between flood and drought: How cities are facing water surplus and scarcity

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Urban Planning
• Climate Change Adaptation

Background:

• Water-related hazards like droughts and floods impact urban ecosystems globally, causing fatalities and economic losses.
• Urban floods are more recognized than urban droughts, with flash floods presenting monitoring challenges.
• Existing research and adaptation measures often overlook urban droughts, highlighting significant knowledge gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze the challenges urban ecosystems face due to water surplus and scarcity.
• To discuss the need for climate change adaptation strategies in urban areas.
• To identify legislative aspects, current challenges, and knowledge gaps in urban water management.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review on urban water-related hazards.
• Analysis of existing research, adaptation measures, and technological applications.
• Discussion of legislative frameworks and knowledge gaps.

Main Results:

• Urban floods, particularly flash floods, are more studied than urban droughts.
• Cutting-edge technologies are employed for flood risk assessment and early warning systems.
• Significant knowledge gaps persist regarding urban droughts and their management.

Conclusions:

• Increasing urban water retention and implementing Low Impact Development and Nature-based Solutions can mitigate both floods and droughts.
• A holistic approach integrating flood and drought disaster risk reduction strategies is essential for urban resilience.
• Addressing knowledge gaps in urban drought management is critical for effective climate change adaptation.