Flood and drought risk management solutions in smart cities

The frequency and intensity of floods and droughts are projected to rise under future climatic conditions. Urban areas, with their increasing populations and expanding built environments, are expected to face these challenges more acutely. In response, smart cities that leverage digital technologies for data collection and service delivery are well-positioned to address these risks more effectively than traditional cities. This article reviews, analyzes, and discusses how digital technologies are employed in managing urban flood and drought risks. Smart cities integrate information and communication technology alongside Internet of Things devices to optimize public services and foster citizen engagement. A literature review of smart city solutions across Europe highlights the application of advanced technologies, such as risk assessment tools, decision support systems, and early warning mechanisms, in flood- and drought-related climate adaptation strategies, and overall city resilience. The findings underscore the urgent need for an integrated approach to managing these escalating risks, including shared technological solutions that address both hazards simultaneously.