UPD scientists launch 24-hour flood forecasting system

Scientists from the University of the Philippines-Diliman (UPD) have developed an Impact-Based Flood Forecasting System capable of predicting floods up to 24 hours in advance.

This system integrates rainfall projections with detailed 100-year flood hazard maps, adjusting global weather models to fit the Philippines' specific geography and weather patterns for enhanced accuracy.

Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay, executive director of the UP Resilience Institute (UPRI), stated that the system can identify neighborhoods likely to experience major flooding 24 hours prior.

Predictions are accessible on the NOAH website, displaying flood-prone areas on maps and in tables, even specifying the number of potentially affected individuals down to the barangay level.

The project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID-BHA), was developed by scientists from UPRI, the UP NOAH Center, and UPD-CS IESM.

It has successfully forecast flooding events in Davao, Palawan, and Borongan.

The system also allows for public participation in data validation through the LyfSaver app, where citizens can report local flood conditions.