By Dr. Oladimeji Mudele

Floods, a perennial menace, have wrought havoc on communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems for generations. However, in recent times, the convergence of satellite technology and artificial intelligence (AI) has birthed a new frontier in flood management, offering hope in the face of adversity. 

This innovative union is not merely about technology but also about safeguarding lives and livelihoods. 

In 2022, West and Central Africa bore witness to one of its darkest chapters, as floods engulfed over 8.5 million lives across 20 countries. According to a UNICEF report, there were 1,567 souls lost, 4,401 injured, 3.2 million displaced, and 517,000 homes obliterated in 18 nations. Furthermore, Nigeria, Chad, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) were the most affected, with millions grappling with the aftermath. The flood not only ravaged lands but also the very fabric of communities, engulfing 1.6 million hectares of farmland and imperiling livelihoods.

As climate change intensifies, its fingerprints are increasingly evident in the ferocity of natural disasters. Extreme weather events have become harbingers of food insecurity, malnutrition, and societal unrest, exacerbating the vulnerabilities of the marginalized.

However, amid the chaos, international organizations like the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), in the form of humanitarian aid extend a lifeline to the afflicted.

Nonetheless, the specter of flooding still looms large, threatening vital sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and public health. To confront this challenge head-on requires an improved approach to flood monitoring and forecasting tools.

Satellite technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) play pivotal roles in this endeavor. In regions where floods are rampant, such as parts of Africa,” the dearth of meteorological infrastructure poses a formidable barrier.

Satellite imagery, which implies a visual representation of the Earth’s surface captured by cameras or sensors mounted aboard satellites, emerges as a lifeline, empowering us to establish early warning systems and confront climate change-induced disasters.

However, the efficacy of satellite data doesn’t stop at mere observation. It extends to rapid damage assessment, a critical component of post-disaster response. 

Rim Elijah, VP of Sales at EOS Data Analytics, in a research, said, “Satellite data enables us to assess the extent of damage with unprecedented speed and precision. By transcending traditional methods, we can expedite relief efforts, saving lives and mitigating human suffering.”

Yet, the convergence of satellite data and AI ushers in a new dawn in disaster response. AI’s predictive prowess empowers us to anticipate, adapt, and respond swiftly to impending calamities. 

Google’s Flood Hub stands as a testament to this vision. Covering 80 countries, including 23 in Africa, Flood Hub leverages AI and satellite imagery to furnish real-time flood forecasts. Yossi Matias, Google’s VP of Engineering & Research, highlighted its significance, stating its role in facilitating timely interventions and fortifying flood prevention measures.

Also, in 2018, Google established its first African Artificial Intelligence (AI) research centre in Ghana to advance innovative solutions for Africa and the world. Since inception, the centre has utilized satellite imagery and machine learning to map Africa’s built environment, developed the Open Buildings Dataset, enhanced support for Sub-Saharan African languages, addressed locust infestations, adapted flood forecasting systems to Africa’s challenges and addressed maternal mortality using technology. A recent visit by African journalists showcased how Google’s AI solutions are addressing flooding, food security, identity management, and natural disasters.

The Google Research Center in Accra collaborates with local universities, research centres, and policymakers to develop AI solutions that benefit local and global communities. Led by Yossi Matias, Google’s Vice President of Engineering & Research, the centre focuses on creating change through AI-based tools. Through collaborations with global research teams, Google aims to empower communities worldwide, including various African countries, by leveraging AI for positive impact.