How Haawal’s Mobile Flood Barriers Protected Drammen During Storm “Hans”

In August 2023, Norway was struck by the powerful storm “Hans,” bringing record-breaking rainfall and severe flooding. While many communities suffered major damage, Drammen municipality stood out with a success story. Thanks to Haawal’s mobile flood barriers, they avoided extensive damage

and proved how effective modern flood protection can be.

Floodwaters stopped by Haawal flood barrier in Drammen, Norway

Flood Preparedness That Paid Off

Back in 2018, Drammen municipality invested in Haawal flood barriers as part of their emergency preparedness. The barriers were not needed immediately, but five years later, when storm Hans hit, that decision proved invaluable. Because the barriers are reusable, the municipality could quickly deploy them when it mattered most.

Installation of Haawal barrier during a flood preparedness exercise in Drammen, 2018.

Emergency Deployment in Extreme Conditions

The heavy rainfall gave little time for preparation. Drammen’s emergency teams worked through the night in pouring rain to install the barriers. In only four hours, 450 meters of mobile flood barriers were in place. They held strong against the rising water, preventing what could have been significant flooding.

Haawal flood barriers holding back rising water levels.

Smart Strategy: Keeping the Barriers in Place

Once the first wave of flooding receded, Drammen decided to leave the barriers standing. With the ground saturated, even moderate rainfall could trigger new floods. Their decision proved wise: just two weeks later, another heavy downpour caused even higher water levels. Once again, the Haawal system protected the municipality from serious damage.

Close-up of Haawal holding back water.

Documented Success in Flood Protection

This case clearly shows the strength of mobile flood protection: quick to deploy, reusable, and reliable under pressure. Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten even highlighted Drammen’s success story with Haawal, documenting how effective the system was in practice. Geir Ove Næss, Head of Roads and Parks in Drammen Municipality, gave Haawal’s flood barriers top marks for their performance during storm “Hans.”

Geir Ove Næss, Head of Roads and Parks in Drammen Municipality, praised Haawal’s flood barriers for their performance during storm “Hans.”

Proven Flood Protection with Haawal

Haawal flood barriers are a proven and trusted solution for municipalities and organizations facing the growing risk of extreme weather. Storm “Hans” demonstrated that being prepared with the right flood defence system makes all the difference between devastation and safety.

Haawal in place, protecting Drammen from flood.