The ATLAS project in Hauts-de-France has reached an important milestone with the completion of key Phase 2 activities, combining climate risk analysis with extensive stakeholder engagement across the region.
Strengthening Climate Risk Knowledge Through Collaboration
Between November 2025 and May 2026, the project team worked closely with regional stakeholders holding local hazard data, including river basin management organisations, coastal risk authorities, state agencies and economic actors. This collaborative process helped strengthen the regional knowledge base on climate hazards and vulnerabilities.
In parallel, the project team analysed the EXPLORE 2 dataset to assess risks associated with extreme rainfall and compiled information on natural disaster declarations related to floods and mudslides across the region. This work supports a better understanding of high-risk rainfall events at municipal level and their seasonal characteristics.
From Risk Assessment to Regional Planning
In May 2026, the first Steering Committee meeting brought together regional elected representatives responsible for strategic planning, water management, coastal policies and biodiversity. Participants reviewed the results achieved so far and discussed how climate risk findings and recommendations could contribute to the ongoing revision of the Regional Plan for Spatial Planning, Sustainable Development and Territorial Equality (SRADDET).
The discussions highlighted several priorities, including the need for realistic climate scenarios in risk assessments, improved analysis of coastal flood hazards, and greater financial support for local authorities seeking to strengthen climate resilience. Participants also emphasised the importance of communicating reliable climate risk information and mobilising European funding opportunities to support adaptation initiatives.
The project continues to engage local stakeholders through participatory activities. In June 2026, a workshop was organised to develop a territorial risk matrix for the area managed by the Syndicat Mixte pour l’Aménagement et la Gestion des Eaux de l’Aa, a territory severely affected by flooding during the winter of 2023–2024. A dedicated online meeting was also planned to share Phase 2 results with regional stakeholders.
As the project moves forward, the knowledge generated through ATLAS will support evidence-based planning and contribute to strengthening climate resilience across the Hauts-de-France region.