Google has presented a powerful tool that makes it possible to effectively predict floods, giving countries and organizations the ability to take preventive measures against possible natural catastrophes. Is about Google Flood Hubpowered by artificial intelligence (AI).
This tool is already in operation in more than 80 countries, including nations like Chile, and can be used by approximately 460 million people around the world, according to a DW report (via bio bio).
Since June of this year, the Google Flood Hub has extended its reach to Latin American countries such as Argentina, Guatemala, Uruguay, Mexico and Chile. The most surprising thing is that this tool is capable of anticipating floods up to seven days in advance, indicating the time and place where the rivers could overflow.
How does Google Flood Hub work?
The operation of Google Flood Hub is based on the collection of publicly accessible data, such as satellite images and weather reports. These dates are combined with machine learning algorithmswhich analyze flood risks according to water levels in prone areas.
The report notes that many of the river flows around the world lack accurate measurements of flow and water level. Although in countries with larger watercourses these data are more reliable, in vulnerable nations their availability is limited.
Google’s new AI has proven to be a vital ally for authorities in South America and Africa, especially in continental areas lacking accurate river data. Through this system, preventive measures have been taken that have allowed numerous communities to be protected.
Gray Nearing, a scientist and principal researcher at Google, points out that anyone can access the Flood Hub and consult the forecasts for the next few days, obtaining information as accurate as that obtained from traditional sources in real time.