I Felt the Flood VR: Emilia‑Romagna Flood Safety

A virtual‑reality flood preparedness experience designed by Isaac Irvine with Oasis IRIS

Developed and directed by Isaac Irvine for Oasis IRIS, in collaboration with ARPAE (Agenzia regionale per la prevenzione, l’ambiente e l’energia) funded by Innovate UK as part of the DIRECTED PROJECT, I Felt the Flood is an immersive VR training simulation currently piloted in Emilia Romagna, Italy. ARPAE, the regional agency responsible for environmental monitoring, risk prevention, and civil protection support, partnered on the project to explore new ways of preparing communities for climate driven events.

This project places users at the heart of a realistic flood event, designed not just to inform but to emotionally prepare. Presented at ECCA 2025, the experience guides participants through phases before, during, and after a flood, helping them practice real time responses in a safe, simulated environment. 

Produced in both English and Italian, the simulation ensures accessibility for local communities and international audiences alike. Built using VR technology, spatial sound, and environmental visuals, the experience mimics rising water, sensory shifts, and the emotional gravity of a flood scenario. Feedback from pilot users highlighted its vivid realism, with participants reporting that they remembered the sound of water and felt the cold, and that the spatially immersive details lingered long after the simulation.

This project illustrates Isaac’s commitment to using immersive art for social resilience and public education. By merging experiential storytelling with practical training, I Felt the Flood demonstrates how VR can transform how communities understand risk, respond to emergencies, and build empathy.