A multi-criteria approach to coastal flooding risk assessment: from modelling to crisis response

Abstract. With climate change inducing sea-level rise, the vulnerability of buildings and coastal infrastructure facing marine submersion is increasing. To estimate this vulnerability, our study analyzes sensitive areas with a view to anticipating these crises and raising public awareness. Any emergency response must therefore be prepared and analyzed in advance. Simulations based on the Xynthia storm and IPCC scenarios were used to identify the areas most at risk, enabling an analysis of the vulnerability of assets located in the municipality. An historical analysis of storms has also enabled recurring problems to be catalogued and crisis management strategies to be refined. At the same time, refuge areas were defined according to precise criteria, to optimize people's response to the risk, while providing organizational support for the emergency services. To this end, a dynamic mapping tool has been developed to pinpoint areas at risk and facilitate the implementation of preventive measures. The final objective is to create an interactive digital tool to help emergency services to visualize at-risk areas in real time and optimize their response during an event. Initially, this article will set the scene and present the study area. This will be followed by a description of the methodology used to understand the mapping tool. The last part of this article will be devoted to the results and the analysis of risks and issues.