Marco van Haandel is the project manager focused on flood protection in Rotterdam. He is responsible for safeguarding residents during high water events. His job can call him away at any time, which his wife finds challenging.
High water can rise to 1.80 meters above sea level during storms. When that happens, he must coordinate actions taken to protect the city. This involves alerting residents and taking preventive measures to avoid any flooding.
In December 2023, he had to inform some residents they needed to evacuate due to rising water levels. The communication went well, and the impacted families were appreciative when they could return home safely.
Marco also highlights that not all areas are equally protected by dikes, and more extreme weather events are expected due to climate change.
During the last year, there were 38 occasions of high water, significantly more than before. His role is primarily about immediate measures rather than long-term solutions, which he admits is a struggle.
Despite the demands of his job, Marco balances professional duty and family life, which includes making it up to his wife when work comes first.