Local communities and challenges of torrential floods

The purpose of this manual is to acquaint local and international stakeholders with national achievements and challenges in the field of torrential flood risk management in Serbia. It contains a comprehensive review of historically significant torrential floods in Serbia, existing flood management strategies, risk analysis and legal framework that stipulates the jurisdiction of local governments in the prevention and management of flood risks. It highlights the strategic importance of the role that local authorities have in creating flood resilient communities. A part of the manual is dedicated to the engagement of civil society in raising awareness of local communities in disaster risk reduction and the importance of their co-operation and partnership with elected officials, thus creating a "culture of preparedness".