Predicting wave impact on structures on top of a levee

In low-lying countries like the Netherlands and Belgium, coastal areas are often highly urbanized, and buildings are often built on or close to the flood defenses (Figure 2 shows a typical Belgian seaside town). This is an example of multifunctional flood defense, where urban functions are integrated with flood defense structures. In this example, the wide crest of the coastal dike is used as a promenade with building frontage. However, policy makers as well as the users and owners of the properties may be unaware of possible overtopping effects, and they may lack records of wave overtopping and the potential direct damage it can cause. The goal of this research project was to develop a tool that can measure the risks and potential cost of wave overtopping events on buildings.