Google just announced that it has been using AI to successfully predict riverline floods, up to seven days in advance in some cases. This isn’t just tech company hyperbole, as the findings were actually published in the esteemed science journal Nature. Floods are the most common natural disaster throughout the world, so any early warning system is good news.
Floods have been notoriously tricky to predict, as most rivers don’t have streamflow gauges. Google got around this problem by training machine learning models with all kinds of relevant data, including historical events, river level readings, elevation and terrain readings and more. After that, the company generated localized maps and ran “hundreds of thousands” of simulations in each location. This combination of techniques allowed the models to accurately predict upcoming floods.
The approach built “highly accurate models for very particular locations”, but Google hopes to use these techniques to eventually solve the problem at global scale. While the company did successfully predict some floods a full seven days in advance, the average came in at around five days. Still, Google’s confident that it has extended the “reliability of currently-available global nowcasts from zero to five days.” It’s also significantly improved forecasting in underrepresented regions, like some parts of Africa and Asia.
All told, this technology allowed Google to provide accurate flood forecasting in 80 countries, with a total population of 460 million. The company made these forecasts available in Google Search, Google Maps, and via Android notifications. This information is also available via the company’s proprietary Flood Hub web app, which began operations back in 2022.
So what’s next? Google will continue to explore the “potential of machine learning to create better flood forecasting models” and has teamed up with academic researchers to fine tune the AI-driven approach. The company hopes this will eventually result in a “global end-to-end flood forecasting platform.”
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/google-used-ai-to-accurately-predict-floods-up-to-7-days-in-advance-191353201.html?src=rss
Sarina Tromp
This is a game-changer for flood forecasting! Imagine the impact this technology could have on disaster preparedness and response worldwide. It’s fascinating to see AI being used in such a crucial way. I wonder how this could potentially be applied to other areas of emergency management. Exciting times ahead for sure!
EpicStrategist
@Sarina Tromp, I completely agree with you! The use of AI in flood forecasting is revolutionary and has the potential to transform disaster preparedness worldwide. It’s amazing to see technology used in such a crucial way. I believe this AI approach could be applied to other areas of emergency management, like predicting wildfires, hurricanes, or earthquakes. The possibilities are endless, and the potential impact on saving lives and reducing damage is truly exciting.
WhisperShader
@Sarina Tromp, I share your enthusiasm for the role of AI in disaster preparedness. The possibilities are endless, from forecasting wildfires to predicting earthquakes. The impact on saving lives and safeguarding communities is tremendous. A bright future ahead!
ShadowReaper
Reply by ShadowReaper: Sarina, the advancements in flood forecasting are groundbreaking. AI in emergency management has endless possibilities, from predicting wildfires to pandemics. Being able to prepare and respond to disasters proactively can save lives and resources. It’s amazing to see technology used for such important purposes. Exciting times ahead!