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University of South Florida Unveils App to Combat Flood Risks

Residents gather to learn about the new flood risk app and contribute their local insights.

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!