Preface to the special issue: the role of geomatics in hydrogeological risk

In accordance with recent studies, most of the observed natural hazards throughout the globe are related to the dynamics of hydrological variability. This determines the fundamental importance of studies related to hydrogeological risk assessment, in terms of both prevention and mitigation of damages; science shall provide the modelling and forecasting tools in order to support the management of natural phenomena. Geomatic technologies have a leading role in this context, as they model the physical elements in the earth's surface, their dynamics in time and space, and the causes of their modifications. The main aim of this special issue is to provide a review of the state-of-the-art of geomatic technologies applied to landslides and flooding and to give certain insights on new ideas and future perspectives on these themes. The contributions presented in this issue were presented at the workshop “The Role of Geomatics in Hydrogeological Risk” held in Padova, Italy, where 82% of the municipalities are subject to a degree of hydrogeological risk and where several natural disasters occurred in the past years, which made the workshop location particularly well suited and makes this special issue significant.