A team of UNIMAS researchers have developed a cutting-edge flood monitoring system called FloodWatch, which took home the prestigious Best and Gold Award at the recent Defense, Security and Sustainability Exhibition 2024.
FloodWatch is a hyperlocal, street-level flood mapping and monitoring solution designed to provide precise real-time data on flooding conditions in urban drainage systems.
Led by Dr. Lau Sei Ping, the multidisciplinary team includes Prof. Dr. Tan Chong Eng, Assoc. Prof. Ir. Dr. Charles Bong Hin Joo, Assoc. Prof. Ir. Dr. Leonard Lim Lik Pueh, Christopher Sii, and Ho Wan Yu.
The novel system features a network of self-sustaining wireless sensors powered by solar energy and strategically deployed throughout urban drainage channels.
These sensors continuously monitor water levels, instantly detecting flood events and communicating real-time alerts to relevant authorities and stakeholders.
“Traditional methods like social media broadcasting are often delayed and have limited reach,” explained Dr. Lau.
FloodWatch provides autonomous, hyperlocal precision sensing that can facilitate rapid emergency response, road closure management, and long-term drainage planning.
Some of FloodWatch’s key innovations include high-density sensor deployment for granular, drain-level flood monitoring, self-sustaining solar-powered sensors for autonomous operation, real-time cloud-based analysis and alert broadcasting, and detailed spatiotemporal flood mapping for urban planning.
The project, funded by the university’s VC-High Impact Research Grant, has already secured intellectual property protection with a copyright from MyIPO.
Potential applications span local government emergency management, traffic rerouting, targeted evacuation efforts, and drainage system optimization by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage.
With climate change increasing flood risk worldwide, FloodWatch represents a major step forward in enhancing urban resilience and disaster preparedness.
The prestigious award is a testament to the team’s innovative spirit and commitment to creating a sustainable world.
This research is related to Sustainable Development Goal: Sustainable Cities and Communities (SGD 11), Climate Action (SDG 13) and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).
