Flood Forecasting and Early Warning System

by Peter J. Singhofen, PE 

Authors:
Peter J. Signhofen, PE:
Founder and CTO, Streamline Technologies Inc., 1135 Est State Road 434, Suite 3002, Winter Springs, FL 32708

Publication Date:
Wednesday, April 10th, 2024

Source:
Streamline Technologies, Inc.

Abstract:
Flood Forecasting and Early Warning System: How FloodWise™ and StormWise™ Changed Outcomes Using One Hurricane's Data to Predict the Next - discusses the implementation and efficacy of FloodWise™ and StormWise™ (formerly ICPR4), a flood forecasting and early warning system in the Orlo Vista neighborhood of Orange County, Florida.

Following severe flooding caused by Hurricane Irma in 2017, which saw 9.1 inches of rain in 12 hours - the most significant since Hurricane Donna in 1960, Orange County sought a solution to forecast and mitigate future flood events. FloodWise™, developed by Streamline Technologies, integrates surface water-groundwater modeling and real-time rainfall data to provide flood forecasting up to 10 days in advance. Features of this system include:

1. Integrated surface water - groundwater modeling
2. Calibration and verification of Hurricane Irma
3. Operational for the existing and proposed storage/pump systems
4. Interaction via an outward-facing dashboard
5. Alternative rainfall scenarios from the dashboard
6. Alternative operating scenarios of the pump stations from the dashboard

Using data from Hurricane Irma and subsequent events, the system accurately forecasted that over 100 homes would flood three days in advance as Hurricane Ian approached. This allowed for proactive measures such as voluntary evacuations. The system's successful deployment in 2022, notably forecasted the flooding impacts of Hurricane Ian, demonstrates its effectiveness in helping communities prepare for and respond to flood disasters.

FloodWise™ serves as a vital operational tool for flood managers and emergency response teams, facilitating informed decision-making and reducing the impact of catastrophic flood events affecting the lives of the people they protect.

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Flood Forecasting and Early Warning System: How FloodWise™ and StormWise™ Changed Outcomes Using One Hurricane's Data to Predict the Next