Jérôme Le Coz – Hydraulics researcher, RIVERLY Unit, INRAE(testimonial from the “30 years of research for flood prevention” dossier – 2022)
“For the past 15 years, I’ve been developing innovative flow measurement methods for the Ministry of Ecology’s flood prevention services. Flow measurements are the first building block in flood forecasting. Models, prevention plans and risk assessments are all based on them. This data, which is of heritage value, is stored in the hydroportal. France has a solid hydrometric network, with around 2,400 flow monitoring stations, some with over 100 years of observation. Measurement methods are varied and constantly evolving, ranging from propeller reels to hydro-acoustic profilers and the analysis of videos taken on the ground or by drone. Hydrometry is a passionate field that brings together engineers from all over the world in a highly dynamic network. As well as taking measurements, we also need to quantify the uncertainty associated with the conditions and the measurement tool. These are challenges that France is well ahead of, thanks in particular to the long-term support of our partners.
Testimonial from our thematic dossier
Thematic dossier
30 years of research into flood prevention
The risk of flooding is the leading natural hazard in France in terms of impact and extent. As experts in water-related risks, six INRAE scientific teams are helping to implement flood prevention policy. They are working on tools and methods for forecasting and preventing this risk, which are presented in this dossier.
