Mapping Flood Disadvantage in Scotland 2015: Research Findings

Conclusions

Investigation into the flood hazard-exposure index confirms that flooding is a substantial risk in Scotland. Neighbourhood exposure to flooding varies between and within local authorities, depending upon the source of flooding (river, coastal, surface water). The scale of flood disadvantage suggests that urgent action is needed to address the risks to highly vulnerable communities exposed to flooding.

The results of the project can be used by a variety of organisations, from local authorities to the Scottish Government, to inform flood risk management actions. The local authorities involved in the case studies envisaged that the results will support cross-departmental working, identifying priority areas for emergency services, and communicating flood risk issues to local communities. Using local knowledge is important to supplement the maps developed using national-level datasets, to progress understanding of flood disadvantage.