Layer 3: (Preparing for) crisis control

This layer pertains to actions during a flood and is also referred to as the “warm phase” of crisis control. This layer seeks to minimise and prevent societal disruption. The Safety Regions play a coordinating role in the mobilisation of emergency services.

What are the Safety Regions doing?

To control the impact of extreme waterlogging or flooding, the Safety Regions maintain close contact with Rijkswaterstaat (the executive branch of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management) and the district water boards. Rijkswaterstaat and the district water boards are aware of the measured and expected water levels in the main and regional water system rivers. The Safety Regions and municipalities base their actions on these expected water levels.

How can district water boards be better prepared for water risks?

The Netherlands Institute for Public Safety (NIPV) has published a report on options to improve the position of the district water boards by improving collaboration between the district water boards and the Safety Regions.

KNMI Early Warning Centre

Through its Early Warning Centre, the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) can issue faster and more accurate warnings in the event of imminent serious waterlogging, flooding or other extreme weather conditions. These are not only directed to the general public, but also to, for example, Safety Regions and district water boards.