AI improves global flood forecasting and extends alert time
Source: Asia Insurance Review | May 2024
A new study, Global prediction of extreme floods in ungauged watersheds published in a recent issue of scientific journal Nature says AI and machine learning technologies have significantly improved global flood forecasting, particularly in regions where flood-related data is scare.
According to the study the use of AI-based technologies in riverine flood forecasting can be a significant change, extending the reliability of global warnings from zero to five days on average. This advancement can help save lives by providing real-time river forecasts up to seven days in advance, especially in regions of Africa and Asia.
The study, led by University of California assistant professor (land, air, and water resources) Grey Nearing, however, said, “Further work is needed to expand coverage to more locations and for other types of flooding, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration between tech companies, academic institutions, and governments.” A