About Us
The GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences focuses on research on the Earth system. While the primary focus is on improving our understanding of the system and its processes, the center also analyzes interactions with humans. Research and analysis of natural hazards such as flooding, as well as strategies for risk reduction—including those that take global change into account—play a particularly important role.
The Hydrology Section conducts data- and simulation-based analyses of the entire flood risk chain—from heavy rainfall events through hydrological and hydraulic processes to flooding and potential damage. In doing so, atmospheric, hydrological, and socioeconomic data and models are integrated to analyze flood events holistically.
A particular strength lies in the model-based simulation of complex flood scenarios. To this end, various models are coupled to realistically depict long-term climate and runoff trends as well as potential flooding and its impacts. This allows for better assessment of flood risks and investigation of future developments under changing climatic conditions.
Our Goals in KAHR 2.0
We develop locally specific and practical climate scenarios that serve as a basis for evaluating protection objectives and measures. In collaboration with industry partners, we develop extreme scenarios for both current and future climate conditions.
Building on this, we use hydrological and hydraulic models to analyze how the effectiveness of existing and planned flood protection measures changes under climate change conditions. In addition to regular design events, we also consider worst-case scenarios to comprehensively assess potential risks. Another focus is on identifying particularly vulnerable elements, such as critical infrastructure, as well as developing measures to strengthen resilience.
In this way, we contribute in particular to the further development of methods and strategies for climate-resilient reconstruction. In addition, we support the provision of scientific findings for the practice of water management and spatial planning, the development of differentiated protection objectives under changing hydrological conditions, and the analysis of synergies between natural and engineered flood protection. Another important aspect is the transfer of the knowledge and experience gained to other regions in Germany and Europe.
Our Team
- Prof. Dr. Bruno Merz
- Dr. Heiko Apel
- Dr. Sergiy Vorogushyn
- Dr. Viet Dung Nguyen
Contact Information
Prof. Dr. Bruno Merz
Deutsches GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam
Sektion 4.4 Hydrologie
Telegrafenberg
14473 Potsdam
Phone: +49 (0) 331-6264-1500
E-Mail:
