Google is using the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to solve real-world problems. In addition to SOS alerts and Google Alerts, Google has now launched an AI solution to predict floods.
The recent flood incidents in Kerala and Himachal Pradesh have destroyed many lives. Google is using AI and its computational capabilities to warn users about impending floods. The service will be a part of Google Public Alerts program. While Google’s search tool has been a window to the world for years, features like SOS Alerts on Search and Maps have provided actionable information in many emergency situations.
The new feature will boost Google’s AI and computational capabilities as well. The tech giant has partnered with India’s Central Water Commission (CWC), the apex organization in the field of Water Resources, to launch flood warnings. In an official blog post, Google’s VP of Engineering, Yossi Matias has shared the details of this feature.
Effective and accurate flood forecasting can help individuals to stay safe by allowing authorities to alert them in unpredictable crisis situations like floods. Early warnings systems will help people take corrective steps in the nick of time and prevent loss of lives.
Until last year, CWC was forecasting food situations with a day’s warning. With Google’s AI tools, authorities can now provide a three-day headstart for people to plan precautionary measures. Google is using AI, machine learning (ML), geospatial mapping and analysis of hydrological observation data to provide location-targeted and actionable flood warning systems.
The first alert was sent in the region earlier this month, after a period of heavy rains. The feature will now get incorporated into Google Public Alerts and incorporate various elements, right from historical events to river water-level readings. The company generates maps and run up hundreds of thousands of simulations in each location using this information.
According to CWC, Google’s AI-enabled forecasting will be used on trial-basis initially. The collaboration will help the country in saving lot of money as a result to loss of property and life.