Flood risk monitoring involves the continuous assessment and analysis of various factors that contribute to the potential for flooding in a particular area. This process is crucial for effective flood management, emergency response planning, and reducing the impact of floods on communities and infrastructure.

Effective flood warning systems should be based on the regular collection of local rainfall, stream level, and streamflow data. The systems comprise of water level and flow sensors, as well as rainfall sensors that are deployed in cities or any area of interest. The sensors can be connected to either the main electricity or can be solar-powered. These sensors are deployed on bridges, wells, lakes, or beaches to measure water levels and flows in real-time and continuously send data remotely to the centralized data system management via different networks such as GSM, mobile cell networks, or Wi-Fi.

It is important to know how dangerous a flood can be and should take note that:

● As little as 300mm of fast-flowing water can move most cars off the road.
● Just 150mm of fast-flowing water can knock you off your feet.
● 66% of flood deaths occur in vehicles, and most happen when drivers make a single, fatal mistake trying to navigate through flood waters.
● Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters.
● One-third of flooded roads and bridges are so damaged by water that any vehicle trying to cross stands only a 50% chance of making it to the other side.
● Flood waters move fast enough to roll boulders, tear out trees and destroy bridges – a process known as scouring.
● Flood water is often contaminated by overflowing drains, animal carcasses and refuse.
● Electric currents can pass through flood water from downed power lines and cables.
● Flood water can move manhole and drain covers, creating invisible dangers.
● Because water displaces body weight, the deeper a person becomes immersed in floodwater, the less the person weighs, so the more difficult it is for them to remain upright.
● Scientists predict that climate change may lead to more frequent flooding in the future.

Sigma offers radar systems for water flow & level measurements, rainfall sensors, as well as complete weather stations.