CIMA Research Foundation is in charge of collecting hydro-meteorological measurement deriving from different systems (gauge stations, meteorological radar and satellites) and it is responsible for developing algorithms and models to ensure a state-of-the-art use of this information both for civil protection purposes and for applied research.
Gauge stations
The archive of data available at CIMA RF is composed of observation from more than 1700 raingauges, 1300 thermometers, 1000 stream level gauges, 300 hygrometers, 200 anemometers, 100 snow gauges and 100 barometers on an hourly basis.
Data from these stations allow for real-time monitoring of hydrometeorological phenomena and for developing algorithms that combine observations with hydrometeorological models (e.g. data fusion and data assimilation).
Radar Meteorology: Italian National Radar Network and Mt. Settepani Radar
The primary justification for a weather radar network in Italy is the detection and warning of severe weather and related hydro-geological hazard. The hydro-geological hazard and risk are further enhanced by the orography, which is in Italy characterized by small catchments along most coastlines and by the Alpine and Apennine chains. More...
RIME: real-time quantitative precipitation estimation by polarimetric C-band radar
Polarimetric radars provide measurements that describe the shape and dimensions of hydrometeors and are unaffected by calibration, attenuation, and the presence of ice. These measurements can potentially lead to a more detailed description of hydrometeors and to an improvement in quantitative rainfall rate estimation. More...
Remote sensing of hydrometeorological variables
Remote sensing offers to the research on water resources a synoptic view of the spatial distribution and dynamics of hydrological phenomena, often unattainable by traditional ground surveys. Earth observation system, in fact, provides information at low, medium and high spatial resolution for monitoring and modelling hydrometeorological phenomena at different scales. Examples of research topics that are relevant for CIMA Research Foundation are: snow cover monitoring and mapping, flood monitoring and mapping and soil moisture estimation.
Snow Cover – DTC-OT
In snow-dominated catchments the accuracy of streamflow forecasts also depends on the accuracy of snow pack state estimates. The snow pack is characterized by high spatial and temporal variability and its hydrological modelling could be difficult. More...
Flood Delineation & Mapping - OPERA
Remote sensing techniques are used to measure and monitor the areal extent of the flooded areas, to efficiently target rescue efforts and to provide quantifiable estimates of the amount of land and infrastructure affected. Incorporating remotely sensed data into a system for the management of geographic information allows quick calculations and assessments of water levels, damage, and areas facing potential flood danger. More...
Soil Moisture - ACHAB
Soil moisture generally refers to the water contained in the upper 1-2m of soil, which can potentially evaporate into the atmosphere. Early detection of dry conditions which could lead to crop damage, or are indicative of potential drought, is important for amelioration efforts and forecasting potential crop yields. More...
