MOSQUITO

The MOSQUITO (MOnitoring and predicting urban floods using Sar InTerferometric Observations) project, funded by the Fonds National de la Recherche Luxembourg and headed by the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology began in 2016 and finished in 2018. MOSQUITO aimed to analyze spatiotemporally (size and duration) relevant flood events in urban areas using hydrodynamic models and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data

By comparing information obtained from SAR data, which has a synoptic view, and information derived from hydrodynamic models that need to be calibrated, is possible to make a cross-validation. In this way, a more accurate input of data increases the validity of the model itself.

The purpose of the MOSQUITO project is to develop new algorithms for mapping flood-risk urban areas that combine hydrodynamic models and a multi-temporal trend of coherence from interferometric SAR data.

Methods, algorithms and developed models can then be applied globally. SAR mapping is particularly complex in urban areas, where the territory is not uniform and buildings may interfere with the process of obtaining information from the ground. The innovative use of SAR data combined with hydrodynamic models will improve flood risk assessment in many cities, making it useful for local government and civil protection. In particular, it will identify vulnerable areas to organise searches and rescue operations, as well as medical care and emergency evacuations.