Home / Disasters and Accidents / Yuyao's Tech Wins: Flood Foiled by Smart Forecasting
Yuyao's Tech Wins: Flood Foiled by Smart Forecasting
13 Jan
Summary
- A machine-learning model developed in 2023 analyzes rainfall and terrain for flash flood prediction.
- Precision forecasting and warning systems enabled the evacuation of 1,153 residents during Typhoon Co-May.
- Yuyao's advanced monitoring network now covers every village, enhancing real-time data accuracy.
A specialized forecasting system designed for small watersheds has proven instrumental in preventing weather-related disasters in Yuyao, Zhejiang province. Since 2023, a machine-learning model, dubbed "One Strategy for One Gully," has been analyzing cumulative rainfall, peak intensity, and rain rates. This system provides dynamic thresholds for each drainage gully, offering immediate and visible alerts when danger levels are approached. The system's efficacy was demonstrated during Typhoon Co-May, when torrential rains threatened the city. Precision meteorological forecasting and rapid warning systems facilitated the timely evacuation of all 1,153 residents from designated risk zones.
Yuyao's unique topography, characterized by mountains, water, and farmland, often funnels extreme rainfall into narrow valleys, creating conditions ripe for flash floods. The city has faced significant challenges from past typhoons, including In-Fa in 2021 and Muifa in 2022, which brought record rainfall and river flooding. To combat these fast-acting threats, meteorologists and water resource officials established a joint consultation mechanism. This collaboration allows for prompt risk assessment and coordinated action before storms strike, complemented by automated audio and visual alarms on alert poles in high-risk areas.
The city has also fortified its monitoring capabilities with advanced technologies like X-band radar and millimeter-wave cloud radar. As of last year, monitoring stations blanketed every village and community, refreshing data every 2.3 kilometers. This extensive network delivers real-time rainfall and water level data, significantly improving prediction accuracy. During Typhoon Kong-rey in late 2024, red alerts were issued via precision messaging, reaching every household within minutes and leading to the safe evacuation of 1,238 residents. Yuyao is now recognized as a model for small watershed forecasting in Zhejiang, with plans to further enhance alert coverage and integrate technology with community-based emergency systems.
