Recent flooding events in the region have highlighted the urgent need for innovative solutions to protect our communities. After almost a year of work in silence as part of FLOPRES project, we were able to demonstrate the power of tech to the public and install the first IoT sensors in Eastern Slovakia.
What is FLOPRES?
FLOPRES is a collaborative Slovak-Polish initiative aimed at creating an integrated solution for flood modeling, forecasting, early warnings, and the integration and analysis of multimodal data. This comprehensive approach supports authorities responsible for water and emergency management at all levels, as well as private individuals impacted by climate change-related hazardous events.
Based on historical flood events, Prešovský samosprávny kraj has identified three pilot areas for the project: Svidník and the Ladomírka watershed, Bardejov and the Šibská water basin, and Jarovnice and the Malá Svinka watershed. In total, 40 municipalities will be involved in the project. Currently, 12 water level sensors have been installed to monitor these high-risk areas. By the end of this year, additional devices such as rain gauges, soil moisture sensors, and thermometers will also be set up. According to PSK Chairman Milan Majerský, approximately 180 sensors will be installed in total.
Our goal is clear: to improve our ability to respond promptly and effectively, preventing damage.” FLOPRES represents a significant step forward in our efforts to build more resilient communities.
Milan Majerský, the chairman of Prešovský samosprávny kraj
Why is this important?
While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare for its unpredictability. FLOPRES provides residents with precious time to evacuate and take necessary precautions before a flood strikes. By monitoring river behavior and identifying potential threats early on, we can minimize damage and protect lives.
As the mayor of Svidník, Marcela Ivančová, said:
It is a groundbreaking solution, a pilot, that is going to empower us with the thing that is needed the most in flood situations—time. The time to react proactively when danger is coming.
How does it work?
Utilizing IoT sensors, we’ve established a robust digital infrastructure along river networks that continuously measure key environmental factors: water levels, rainfall, temperature, and soil moisture.
Here’s how it all comes together:
Water Level Sensors: These are placed at strategic points, such as under bridges, to monitor fluctuations in river levels. This helps us understand how rivers respond to rainfall and detect any unexpected rises that might indicate flooding or blockages.
Precipitation Sensors: These devices measure the amount of rainfall, providing essential data on precipitation patterns that influence river behavior. Together with mathematical models and predictions about rainfall totals, we can predict if and when the river will flood.
Temperature Sensors: Monitoring temperature helps predict snowmelt and evaporation rates, both of which can significantly affect river levels.
Soil Moisture Sensors: These measure the water content in the soil, which is crucial for predicting runoff and potential landslides caused by saturated ground.
This setup provides us with real-time data on how rivers behave during rainfalls or when there are blockages due to organic debris. This data is then used to generate timely warnings to residents and authorities via a dedicated mobile app. By providing accurate and up-to-date information, FLOPRES empowers communities to respond effectively to flood threats.
Pavol Turčina, CEO GOSPACE LABS
In essence, this real-time monitoring and alert system gives us a crucial advantage: time. Time to evacuate, to take necessary precautions, and to minimize damage and protect lives.
A Collaborative Effort FLOPRES is a testament to the power of collaboration. This project is a joint effort between GOSPACE LABS, Prešovský samosprávny kraj, ESPRIT spol. s r.o., Małopolska Agencja Rozwoju Regionalnego S.A., and Meteo.pl.
Learn more about the deployment in one of the TV mentions:
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