EHS Management Consultants: Flood Mitigation Strategies in the UAE

Building Resilience: The Flood Mitigation in the UAE

The most frequent natural disasters globally are flash floods, which happen when a lot of rain falls quickly and produces a lot of surface runoff.

Flash floods result in a significant loss of life and economic consequences annually while also exacerbating social, economic and environmental vulnerabilities. On 16 April 2024, the United Arab Emirates experienced extreme rainfall with some areas receiving over 250 mm in less than 24 hours. This extreme weather event has impacted various sectors across the region, including industrial and commercial facilities.

Factors Influencing Rainfall

Humidity Levels: Higher humidity increases the chances of rain.
Temperature: Extreme heat can lead to thunderstorms.
Wind Patterns: Changes in wind direction can bring moisture-laden air from the ocean.





But how do we move from chaos to control? How do we harness innovation to transform vulnerable areas into resilient landscapes? The answer lies in flood mitigation an approach that blends traditional engineering techniques with the wisdom of nature and modern technology.

How vulnerable is your area to flooding? Factors like local topography, age of infrastructure, watershed health and precipitation trends influence flood vulnerability.

Climate Change and Rainfall Projection

The UAE's National Centre of Meteorology has projected that the country could see up to a 30% increase in annual precipitation over this century, making flood risk management an urgent priority.


Projected Average Largest 1 Day Precipitation, United Arab Emirate (Ref: 1995-2014), Multi Model Ensemble.

Engineering Meets Nature: A Holistic Approach

At EHS Management Consultants, we believe that flood mitigation requires more than just reactive measures, it calls for a proactive, integrated approach. Traditional engineering solutions such as storm water drainage systems, retention basins and levee are essential first lines of barriers, but modern challenges demand more innovative, sustainable practices. We’re able to introduce flood mitigation strategies that go beyond just managing water.

These are not distant dream, they are real, tangible solutions. Integrating nature into urban planning creates a dual benefit: not only do these methods help manage storm water, but they also enhance the sustainability and livability.



2D depth and water surface elevation grids - Source: Flood Modeler


EHS Management Consultant’s flood risk assessment methodology includes detailed topographical analysis, drainage system evaluations and storm water management reviews. We assess seepage points, design enhancements and operational improvements to identify areas most susceptible to flooding. These insights are incorporated into a Flood Assessment Master Plan and a Flood Mitigation Plan, providing a comprehensive roadmap to mitigate flood risks in vulnerable areas in UAE. Through careful planning, ensure that industrial and commercial facilities are better prepared for future extreme weather events, aligning with the UAE’s efforts to safeguard communities and infrastructure from the increasing threats of climate change.



















































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