Hydrological extremes in the Mediterranean basin: interactions, impacts, and adaptation in the face of climate change

The Mediterranean region is emerging as a significant hotspot for climate change impacts, particularly in terms of extreme hydrological events such as droughts, intense rainfall, and floods. This review synthesizes current knowledge of these phenomena, focusing on their characteristics, trends, and interactions. Droughts have become more frequent, prolonged, and severe, especially in the southern and eastern areas, driven by rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns. These droughts strain water resources, increase wildfire risks, and heighten vulnerability to soil erosion and subsequent flooding. Conversely, intense rainfall, particularly in the western and northern Mediterranean, has increased in both frequency and intensity, exacerbating flash flood risks in urban areas with inadequate infrastructure. Feedback loops, such as drought-induced soil degradation, further amplify flooding severity. Coastal zones face additional threats from rising sea levels and storm surges, compounding flood hazards. The review underscores critical gaps in climate modeling and event prediction and calls for urgent action through integrated water resource management, climate-resilient infrastructure, and strengthened regional cooperation. It recommends developing adaptive strategies that address the interconnected nature of hydrological extremes, prioritizing nature-based solutions, improved early warning systems, and transboundary water governance. Proactive, science-informed policies will be essential to mitigate the escalating impacts of these extreme events across the Mediterranean.