News Summary
Researchers at the University of South Florida in St. Petersburg have launched the CRIS-HAZARD app, designed to tackle rising flood risks by enabling community members to report real-time flooding information. With support from a $1.5 million National Science Foundation grant, this innovative app utilizes crowd-sourced data to enhance flood risk assessments and improve community safety and preparedness during storm seasons. The app empowers local residents, like those in the Childs Park neighborhood, to actively participate in flood management efforts.
USF St. Petersburg Unveils Innovative App to Tackle Flood Risks
In a move that embodies the spirit of community and innovation, researchers at the University of South Florida (USF) in St. Petersburg have rolled out the CRIS-HAZARD app. This groundbreaking application aims to combat rising flooding risks by turning residents into frontline reporters, all while utilizing the power of crowd-sourced data. It’s a fantastic resource for those living in and around Pinellas County, especially as we brace for unpredictable weather patterns!
How Does It Work?
The CRIS-HAZARD app is designed to help locals not only view but also upload real-time information about flooding in their area. Users can share crucial details like photos and videos, making this app a dynamic tool during storm season. It’s all about community engagement and getting as many eyes on the ground as possible!
With data coming straight from folks in coastal neighborhoods, this app aims to offer a more comprehensive understanding of flooding situations. The app integrates crowd-sourced flood data with key geographic information, ensuring that residents have access to a detailed perspective on current risks. It’s like having a neighborhood watch for floods!
Backing Behind the Innovation
Way back in 2023, the app was piloted and is now publicly available, just in time for Hurricane Helene to hit the Gulf Coast. This project is backed by a substantial $1.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation. The brainchild of the USF initiative, led by an accomplished professor focused on Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing, aims to merge artificial intelligence and community insight to enhance flood risk assessments.
Imagine being able to access maps that show storm surge and sea-level rise risks while contributing your own observations. The app makes this a reality, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard in the flood preparedness conversation!
A Tool for The Community
Since its launch, the app has significantly benefited residents in St. Petersburg’s Childs Park neighborhood. Locals have not only been able to prepare for incoming storms but have actively contributed to flood management efforts. By uploading their images and experiences, they’re helping to reshape the way flood data is collected and shared. And with the app processing uploaded material through a sophisticated AI model, information is shared almost instantly, keeping everyone informed and ready.
Looking to the Future
The CRIS-HAZARD app builds on the previous Community Resiliency Information System initiative and aims to identify and assist vulnerable communities. After the chaos wrought by Hurricane Ian in 2022, critical data collected from the app’s users was used to pinpoint areas that struggled with disaster assistance. This capability ensures that emergency managers can better understand where transport aid or power is most needed during evacuations.
In an ambitious step to improve flood predictions, the team plans to deploy 35 static cameras throughout Pinellas County. These cameras will gather more precise data on flood elevations and locations, further enriching the community’s understanding of flood dynamics. Projections will even extend into the future, providing scenarios for possible flooding events over the next 10 to 30 years.
Your Participation Matters
The essence of the CRIS-HAZARD app is rooted in community involvement. It challenges residents to share their unique insights about their neighborhoods, transforming lived experiences into vital data for better flood management. So, whether you’re a long-time local or just passing through, your input is invaluable!
So if you’re looking for a way to stay informed during storm season and want to contribute to making your community safer, the CRIS-HAZARD app is a must. Join your fellow residents in revolutionizing how we tackle flood risks by visiting flood-report.cris-hazard.org today!
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Additional Resources
- ABC News: Record-Breaking Heat West & Flooding Forecast Gulf Coast
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Weather and Radar: Texas Severe Threat Heat Moves East
- Google Search: Weather Forecast
- Fox Weather: Severe Weather Texas South Gulf Coast
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather
- BBC News: Videos
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flooding
- Fox Weather: Tracking Moisture Rain Forecast
- Google News: Floods
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
