'Dutch dikes under pressure due to drought'

This is an expert quote from Leo Zwang, Director of Water Safety & Climate Adaptation at Fugro. 

Due to climate change, we are increasingly facing weather extremes in the Netherlands. That means more frequent heavy rainfall with accompanying high water levels. But also increasingly long periods of drought. Drought also affects water safety. Namely, it causes cracks in the dikes.

During massive droughts, bursts can form in the foundation of a dike. From these cracks, cracking then follows. The extent is determined by the quality of the material used to build a dike. Cracking often occurs on peat dikes during dry summers. This is because peat becomes very light when it dries up. 

New methods 

It is important that dike builders develop new methods to strengthen the Dutch dikes. Using a resistant material like clay when rebuilding the dikes can limit this effect. In a clay dike, cracks will not develop as quickly as with peat. Keeping dikes wet can also be a temporary solution to prevent cracking. 

But the most important thing for water safety is prevention. The construction of dikes must already take into account the possible consequences of climate change. Sustainable materials that can withstand extreme weather conditions must therefore be sought. The method of design is also important here. 

More research 

There is a need for more research into the best methods for dike reinforcement. If we in the Netherlands continue as we have for the past hundred years, we will endanger the safety of our country. Now is the time to take action and invest in the development of sustainable solutions.