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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Estimation of urban structural flood damages: the case study of Palermo

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Abstract The estimation of flood damage is a fundamental step in the economic analysis of a flood control projects. In particular, frequency–damage functions, derived from the hydrologic, hydraulic and damage relationships, are one of the fundamental pieces of information upon which expenditure decisions are based. The aim of this study has been to develop an empirical frequency–damage relationship, obtained by means of detailed local studies, which could be a judgement tool for flood mitigation measures in strongly urbanised drainage areas. Monuments and other estates having a cultural or artistic significance have been specifically taken into account. The analysis has been carried out for the urban area of Palermo (Italy). Damage has been calculated as a percentage of damaged property value, depending on water depth. The structural replacement cost has been used to estimate the average value of a property. Technical and economic efficiency of various flood mitigation measures can be assessed comparing related frequency–damage relationships.