The recent torrential rains that have hit various regions of Spain have highlighted one of the country’s most urgent challenges: the large number of homes located in flood-prone areas. With thousands of properties potentially at risk, concern for natural disasters has gained prominence following extreme precipitation events in recent months.
Julio Martínez, an architect specializing in urban planning and risk management, offers several key points for citizens to determine if their homes are located in flood-prone areas. According to Martínez, there are a variety of tools and resources accessible to everyone to obtain this vital information.
First, he recommends consulting the General Urban Development Plans (PGOU) of each municipality, which detail which areas are classified as flood-prone. “Often, these documents can be downloaded for free from the town hall’s websites,” explains Martínez. Additionally, the architect emphasizes the importance of using official sources, such as risk maps developed by the Hydrographic Confederation and other government entities.
Another of Martínez’s suggestions is to talk to neighbors and local communities to learn about the area’s flood history. “Often, residents have valuable information about past events that is not officially recorded,” he points out.
He also advises paying attention to the characteristics of the terrain. Flat areas near rivers or in natural depressions are more prone to flooding, especially if the drainage system is inadequate or if urban growth has been uncontrolled.
Martínez also highlights the importance of home insurance in protecting against floods. Many citizens are unaware if their policy covers these events, so he recommends reviewing the terms and speaking with the insurer to consider expanding coverage.
As authorities work to improve infrastructure and reduce risks, the architect insists that it is crucial for individuals to take a proactive approach to risk management. “It is essential to be prepared and understand the environment in order to take measures that minimize the impact of floods,” emphasizes Martínez.
In a context of climate change where extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common, understanding the risks associated with flood-prone areas has become a priority. The combination of individual and governmental efforts is essential to ensure the safety of citizens and protect both people and material goods.
via: MiMub in Spanish
