Risk assessment and vulnerability evaluation of cultural landscapes exposed to extreme events linked to climate change: the Wachau case study

Climate change is significantly increasing the risk of extreme weather events, such as heavy rain and flooding, which threaten cultural heritage sites. A study on the Wachau Cultural Landscape in Austria reveals a high likelihood of increased vulnerability to these risks under pessimistic climate scenarios (RCP 8.5) by 2071-2100. The research quantifies vulnerability for terraced areas using advanced methodologies from the STRENCH project, including risk mapping tools and climate projections derived from EURO Cordex experiments. Findings indicate a general increase in extreme weather indices (R20mm, R95pTOT, Rx5day) with spatial resolution of 12x12 km for both near (2021-2050) and far future periods. These projections support policy-making by providing data-driven insights to enhance preparedness, emergency response, and recovery strategies for cultural heritage protection.

Sardella, A., Canesi, L., Cacciotti, R., Kaiser, A., & Bonazza, A. (2022). Risk assessment and vulnerability evaluation of cultural landscapes exposed to extreme events linked to climate change: the Wachau case study. https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-plinius17-93