One year ago, the province of West-Flanders began its recovery journey after severe flooding seriously impacted the southern part of the province. For two and a half weeks in November 2023, emergency services and water management partners worked tirelessly to address the crisis. Flooded roads and utilities, the distribution of food and medicine, evacuations, and the repair of dikes and canals were just some of the challenges faced. Thousands of sandbags were deployed, and water management teams operated around the clock, using locks and pumps to control water levels and direct excess water to the North Sea.
Fostering mutual understanding
Governor Carl Decaluwé led the coordination efforts, holding daily meetings with experts from the emergency services, water management partners and local municipalities to stay updated on weather conditions and address emerging issues. This proactive approach allowed for swift responses to potential hazards like dike breaches and heavy rainfall, ensuring a coordinated effort to mitigate the flood’s impact.
In the aftermath, it became clear that both emergency services and the water management organizations wanted to enhance their collaboration. This led to the idea of a joint study day, aimed at fostering mutual understanding and cooperation during flood crises.
Strengthening Flood Preparedness
On November 26th, the Emergency Planning Service of the Governor of West-Flanders, along with key water management partners (the Flemish Waterways, the Flemish Environmental Agency, the Provincial Water Policy Service, and the Polder Boards), hosted a study day in spirit of the FIER-project. The event aimed to educate emergency services, municipal emergency planning coordinators, and water management partners.
Insights from the Frontline
The morning session featured emergency partners discussing their roles in crisis management. Governor Decaluwé and District Commissioner, Anne Martens, provided an overview of the political and legal framework concerning crisis management and flood risks. Speakers from the fire department, civil protection, defense, and crisis communication shared their experiences and addressed questions about emergency planning structures, information flow, and the capabilities of various services.
Innovations and Collaboration in Crisis Management
In the afternoon, water management partners presented their perspectives, explaining the roles of different actors and key tools for non-water managers. They highlighted their involvement during the 2023 floods and introduced new technologies like drones and satellites for mapping affected areas. Speakers from the National Crisis Centre and the National Geographical Institute elaborated on these advancements.
The event also provided networking opportunities, allowing participants to build relationships that will enhance future cooperation during crises. It was a fruitful and thought-provoking day of cooperation, networking and learning.