Multi sensor systems for flash flood observation

In Oman, the frequency of flash floods has significantly increased in recent years. This phenomenon is correlated with climate change, resulting in an intensification of the atmospheric water cycle. Consequently, a further escalation of flash floods can be anticipated in the future. In Oman, the issue of flash floods is exacerbated by the frequent occurrence of tropical cyclones. Furthermore, the rapid expansion of urban areas, in some cases extending directly into wadis, coupled with the advancing sealing of the ground and insufficient drainage systems, leads to an increased risk of flooding. This is accompanied by substantial property damage and recurring loss of life.

Despite the growing danger posed by flash floods, there is currently no early warning system for precise prediction of these events in Oman. To establish such a system, densely distributed networks for rainfall and water level measurements would be required. However, due to the challenging topography and vastness of the country, implementing such networks is currently not feasible.
Innovative, new methods of environmental observation using photogrammetric and geophysical methods enable measurement of such events. Further, seismic networks could be utilized to detect and track extreme flow events. The increasing availability of low-cost sensors opens up the possibility of instrumenting previously ungauged wadi systems. As part of the project, camera-based and seismic methods are to be developed for improved monitoring of flash floods. For this purpose, data from national sensor networks will be combined with data from various low-cost sensor systems, which will be installed in the wadi catchments within the project.

The project is funded through the funding programme internationalisation of the TU Dresden and the research will be supported by partners in Oman, namely Sultan Qaboos University Muscat and the Earth Quake Monitoring Centre of Oman.