When we think of an Early Warning System (EWS), we often imagine expensive equipment, sophisticated sensors, continuous monitoring, and reliable internet connectivity. Unfortunately, these requirements leave many high-risk communities without adequate early warning coverage.
To overcome this challenge, we have developed and successfully tested a Low-Cost, Self-Sacrificing Sensor-Based Early Warning System.
Designed for locations where continuous monitoring is either too expensive or impractical due to the lack of mobile data or internet connectivity, this innovative solution triggers SMS alerts when floodwater reaches sensors installed at different elevations. There is virtually no limitation on sensor installation height, allowing detection of extreme flood of any height at a very low cost.
When continuous monitoring is not feasible, detecting the critical flood event can still save lives.