Flood risk impact assessment is essential for understanding how flood events affect communities, infrastructure, and economic activity. In this 2023 project, WaveSave analysed flood risks and potential impacts to support better decision-making and climate resilience planning.
The Isiolo River Basin in Kenya faces significant flood risk challenges due to its geographical location and climate conditions. As an Arid and Semi-Arid Land (ASAL) region, Isiolo Town is particularly vulnerable to flash floods, receiving water from upstream mountainous areas with steep slopes. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity and frequency in the region, with the Ewaso Ng’iro North basin projected to experience a 10.9% increase in precipitation by 2050. Additionally, rapid urbanization, inadequate drainage systems, and blocked culverts further compound the flooding issues facing this community where 65% of residents already live below the poverty line.
The goal was to assess and demonstrate the effectiveness of SlamDam as a mobile flood protection solution for the Isiolo River Basin and provide data-driven recommendations for strategic deployment locations and supporting warning systems.
Working in collaboration with TU Delft, we conducted a comprehensive flood risk assessment using advanced hydrodynamic modeling and benefit analysis tools.
This flood risk impact assessment provides insights into how flood events affect vulnerable areas.
This research project was conducted in partnership with TU Delft’s Department of Civil Engineering as part of their Multidisciplinary Project. Additional partners included Nelen & Schuurmans, SNV Netherlands Development Organisation, and the Water Resources Authority of Kenya
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Location: Isiolo River Basin, Isiolo County, Kenya
Timeline: 2023
Flood risk impact assessment builds on established methodologies in hydrodynamic modelling and flood risk research, as developed by institutions such as TU Delft and supported by recent flood risk impact assessment research.
A structured flood risk impact assessment helps prioritise mitigation and adaptation measures. Through this project, WaveSave:
Flood risk impact assessment is a critical step in effective flood management and climate adaptation. Without a clear understanding of where flood risks occur and how they affect people, infrastructure, and economic activity, it is difficult to prioritise interventions or allocate resources effectively.
By analysing exposure, vulnerability, and potential impacts, decision-makers can identify high-risk areas and develop targeted strategies to reduce damage and improve resilience. This is particularly important in regions where flood events are increasing in frequency and intensity.
A structured approach to flood risk impact assessment supports better planning, improves preparedness, and enables more informed investment in flood protection and climate resilience measures.
SlamDam is a mobile flood barrier designed to provide rapid and effective flood protection. Unlike traditional flood defenses, SlamDam can be deployed quickly.
Deployed 200 m of SLAMDAM in less than 2 hours to prevent glacier-melt flooding.
Local teams were trained in deploying and managing SLAMDAM and the early warning system.
Enhanced early flood warning with integrated monitoring and communication tools.
Reduced flood damage to homes and protected 250 hectares of farmland.
Enhanced early flood warning with integrated monitoring and communication tools.
Increased long-term flood resilience through community empowerment and scalable technology
What our clients say
The SLAMDAM project has successfully demonstrated how innovative flood barriers can protect vulnerable areas in Gilgit-Baltistan, offering a sustainable solution for flood management..
Head of Water Resources & Glaciology, Islamabad,
Pakistan
SLAMDAM has transformed our community’s resilience to floods. With the technology and training, we now feel empowered to protect our homes and livelihoods.
Community Leader Passu Community
The SLAMDAM project has successfully demonstrated how innovative flood barriers can protect vulnerable areas in Gilgit-Baltistan, offering a sustainable solution for flood management..
Head of Water Resources & Glaciology, Islamabad,
Pakistan
