Flood emergency planning - planning and capability requirements

This study considers the key principles of flood emergency planning and its associated efficacy through exploration of the global literature. Planning principles identify that plans must be risk based; based on evidence of social behaviour; consistent with overarching governance frameworks; proactive, adaptable and flexible; holistic in nature; linked to required resources; and be regularly tested and reviewed. The process of planning must be integrated and based on the principle of shared responsibility, involving all stakeholders including the community. Evidence suggests that planning is beneficial to prepare organizations for floods but can be challenged by gaps in flood risk knowledge, narrow focus on certain risks, resource constraints, and ultimately, competing organizational priorities. Further research into the efficacy of flood emergency planning is required.