Digital strategies for dealing with extreme events in the water cycle Major incidents pose a significant challenge to society and infrastructure. The basis of all considerations is a comprehensive understanding of the causes and the type, extent and frequency of the events. Earthquakes, tsunamis or volcanic eruptions are hardly influenced by humans or the climate, and historical data provides a stable basis for future risk assessment. However, the situation in the event of floods is changing dramatically and a look into the past is no longer sufficient to simulate future events. Adapted climate models and digital twins allow a comprehensive analysis of the consequences of predicted floods, as well as the assessment of the effectiveness of potential concepts. Central approaches are the avoidance of high-risk areas, measures to regulate water levels and the upgrading of infrastructure to be more resilient to flooding. Adaptation strategies are shown using current examples. Floods and damage caused by floods will increase, complete avoidance is not possible and will be replaced by the concept of damage reduction and damage management.