Google Expands AI-Based Flood Forecasting to Reach 100 Countries

Published on November 18, 2024

Google is scaling its AI-driven riverine flood forecasting coverage to over 100 countries, reaching 700 million people. This expansion aims to provide governments, NGOs, and communities with accurate, real-time flood data, enhancing climate resilience and response efforts globally.

Key developments include a new API and the Google Runoff Reanalysis & Reforecast (GRRR) dataset for researchers and partners, improving data accessibility and predictive capabilities. Google claims that the refined flood forecasting model now delivers the same accuracy at a seven-day lead time as the previous model achieved at five days.

Additionally, Google is introducing “virtual gauges” for areas lacking physical measurement tools, extending coverage to over 150 countries via Flood Hub. Historical data on flood forecasts, dating back to 1981, is also being made available to facilitate long-term analysis.

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