7. Natural Risk Assessment and Management in in Hexagonal France and Europe

Hexagonal France’s diverse geography, from mountains to coastlines, contributes to a high prevalence of natural risks, affecting most of the population. Climate change is exacerbating these risks, with rising temperatures leading to more frequent and intense events like heatwaves, storms, floods, and wildfires. In this paper, we detail specific risks in Hexagonal France. Coastal Risks: erosion, flooding, and storms threaten coastal areas, driven by rising sea levels and human activity. Mountain Risks: the Alps and Pyrenees experience heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of floods and landslides. Other Risks: wildfires are a major concern in southern France, while earthquakes and tsunamis pose threats, particularly in the Mediterranean region. France has a risk management framework involving prevention plans, local and national response coordination, and civil protection forces. However, the increasing frequency and severity of these events, coupled with budget constraints, necessitate a rethinking of risk prevention policies and better integration of scientific knowledge and socioeconomic factors. International cooperation, particularly within the Euro-Mediterranean region and the EU, is crucial for addressing these shared vulnerabilities.