| Each year heavy rain severely affects large areas of the Earth causing considerable damage to towns, roads and agriculture with many human casualties. One of the biggest problems during these emergencies is obtaining an overall view of the phenomenon, with a clear idea of the extent of the flooded area and to predict likely developments. Aerial observation is often impossible due to prohibitive weather conditions and, if the affected area is widespread, would be very time-consuming and expensive. Many of the world’s urban conurbations are in low-lying areas subject to flooding requiring rapid identification and response to flooding events to prevent an environmental phenomenon becoming a potentially serious disaster.
After the floods have subsided, a more precise assessment of the damaged area is often required by municipal authorities. Insurance companies that have provided cover against natural hazards also require accurate information. Detailed maps of the event will also be required for hazard assessment and as inputs to hydrological models so that structural alteration of watercourses can be planned.
The extent to which remote sensing data is used for flood monitoring is still significantly under-exploited. Many potential users are not familiar with the procedure for obtaining satellite data or processing and interpreting the images.
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