Many countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA region) are affected by extreme weather events. Heavy rainfall has repeatedly led to devastating floods in Jordan, for example. Climate change exacerbates the vulnerability of arid regions, where heat, drought and flash floods converge. A recent policy brief by the Institute for Social-Ecological Research (ISOE) provides recommendations for action for countries with limited data availability and institutional capacities. The publication shows how the risk of flood damage can be reduced and the chances of sustainable rainwater utilization increased.