Large Scale Coastal Storm Hazard Mapping

The paper reports on the experience gained by the Authors during the compilation of risk assessment studies of coastal areas for Italian Local and Watershed Authorities, as well as on the related research activities. The main task carried out in connection with such work was the drawing up of hazard maps for different time horizons (e.g. 3 and 10 years) and different damage levels; the problem associated with both coastal erosion forecasting (which affects long term risks) and wave run-up (which determines short term risks and hazard levels) are quickly reviewed with a strong emphasis on the operational application. New results are provided on the evaluation of storm run up risk on low coasts in connection with significant wave height return time and the potential coastal hazard. While no discussion is provided about the relative efficiency of long-shore erosion models — about which a wealth of literature already exists —some information is provided about the use of laser altimetry and conventional mapping techniques in providing data on the coastline position.