The project aims to characterize and identify the most appropriate sources of mapping information for flood modelling in areas of special sensitivity. The project will analyze new information capture technologies, such as LIDAR, remote sensing, and GPS, as well as new usable platforms, such as UAVs or MMS.

Photo 1. Field identification of significant hydraulic elements with GPS and maximum flood heights annotated by villagers

Traditionally human settlements have been located in easily accessible areas, for ease of trade and transport, usually coastal areas. These locations make them especially vulnerable to natural hazards such as hurricanes, winds, and floods. Various agencies such as the IPCC have long been alerting to the possibility that increased storms and torrential rains could lead to flooding, which in turn can lead to the destruction of buildings and infrastructure, pollution, deterioration of natural resources, and loss of commercial activities and livelihoods in certain populations.