Types of emergencies

We manage flood defenses and ensure water quantity, water quality, and (navigable) waterways. Disasters can occur while performing these tasks.

A breach in the flood defenses

We protect the area with dikes and quays against the waters of the North Sea, the Wadden Sea, the IJsselmeer, the Markermeer, and the reservoir waters. The chance of these flood defenses breaking is very small. If, despite this, something does go wrong, the harmful consequences could be very serious.

Flooding or drought

Heavy rainfall can cause flooding. Extreme flooding, such as when polders are inundated, constitutes a disaster. Conversely, prolonged drought with water shortages can also lead to a disaster.

Severe contamination of surface water

Contamination of surface water can have harmful consequences for humans and the environment. Pollution can occur due to the failure of a treatment plant or sewage pumping station, or a break in a pressure pipe. The damage can be extensive and destroy entire ecosystems. In such cases, it is considered a disaster.

Blockage of a waterway

We manage various waterways. A collision between two ships or the sinking of a ship can block a waterway.