An analysis of the damage to archaeological sites documented after a heavy rainfall event in July 2021 in parts of Germany shows that several factors increase the risk of damage to archaeological sites due to heavy rainfall and flooding events. For example, the age of the site, the current utilization of the terrain or the respective slope inclination influence the risk. However, the development of damage cannot be predicted, as the processes involved are too complex: Customized solutions are required for future protective measures. An analysis of the damage to archaeological sites documented after a heavy rainfall event in July 2021 in parts of Germany shows that several factors increase the risk of damage to archaeological sites due to heavy rainfall and flooding events. For example, the age of the site, the current utilization of the terrain or the respective slope inclination influence the risk. However, the development of damage cannot be predicted, as the processes involved are too complex: Customized solutions are required for future protective measures. Archaeology Phys.org – latest science and technology news stories