ISFF27 | Socio and Eco Environmental Risk Management, Department of Urban Management, Kyoto University

Since its inception in 2015, the International Symposium on Flash Floods (ISFF) has evolved into a globally recognized platform for advancing research, innovation, and collaboration in flash flood risk management. The first symposium, held in Wadi (October 2015), laid the foundation for a dynamic international network of researchers, engineers, and practitioners dedicated to understanding and mitigating flash flood hazards. Over the past decade, ISFF has expanded across diverse geographical and climatic contexts, reflecting the global nature of flash flood challenges. From El-Gouna, Egypt (2016) and GUtech, Oman (2017), to Casablanca, Morocco (2018), the symposium strengthened its scientific and regional engagement. Returning to Kyoto, Japan, in 2020 marked a significant milestone, reinforcing the role of advanced research institutions in shaping innovative solutions. Despite global challenges, ISFF continued to grow, with subsequent editions in Amman, Jordan (2021), Tlemcen, Algeria (2023), Al-Ain, UAE (2024), and Muscat, Oman (2025). Each event contributed to building a robust interdisciplinary community, integrating hydrology, climate science, engineering, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital twins. The 10th ISFF, to be held in Kyoto, Japan (March 2027), represents a landmark return to its academic roots at Kyoto University’s Disaster Prevention Research Institute (DPRI). This edition celebrates a decade of progress while setting a forward-looking agenda focused on AI-driven flood forecasting, real-time monitoring, climate resilience, and sustainable risk governance. Bringing together global experts, policymakers, and young researchers, ISFF 2027 aims to strengthen international collaboration and accelerate the transition from research to real-world impact. As flash flood risks intensify under climate change, the symposium reaffirms its mission: to advance science, foster innovation, and support communities worldwide in building resilience against one of the most destructive natural hazards.