APPLICATION OF DRONE TECHNOLOGY FOR FLOOD RISK MONITORING AND MODELING

The increasing frequency and intensity of flood events necessitate innovative approaches for effective monitoring and modeling to mitigate risks. This article explores the application of drone technology in flood risk management, highlighting its advantages over traditional methods. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced sensors can rapidly collect spatial data, enabling detailed topographic assessments and hydrological modeling. Their ability to access hard-to-reach areas allows for real-time monitoring of flood-prone regions and infrastructure, improving response times during emergency situations. Case studies illustrate the successful use of drones in flood risk assessment, mapping, and data validation, demonstrating their potential to enhance decision-making for urban planning and disaster preparedness. Drone applications in flood management encompass a range of functionalities that enhance monitoring, modeling and response strategies. Drones helps and use for Data collection and mapping; Real time monitoring; Risk assessment; Damage assessment - this rapid assessment supports emergency response efforts and aids in recovery planning; Enviromental monitoring; Drones could integrate with other technologies - Geographical information systems (GIS) and data analytics tools to enhance flood modeling and prediction capabilities. The integration of aerial imagery and remote sensing data into flood models underscores the transformative role of drone technology in building resilient communities against flooding. This article emphasizes the need for further research and collaboration across disciplines to optimize drone applications in flood risk management. The aim of the research is Examine modern drone technologies and their application in flood risk monitoring; The adoption of drone technology in flood management provides a cost - effective, efficient, and innovative approach that significantly enchances preparednes and resilience against flooding events. To fulfill the research aim, certain objectives must be completed: 1. Evaluate currently available drone sensors and their use in data collection for flood modeling; 2. Assess the processes involved in modern flood risk monitoring and modeling; 3. To analyse the area of Latvia that are currently most exposed to flood risk and to assess what are the key conditions that contribute to them; 4. Evaluate the integration of drone technologies and their data into a modern flood monitoring and modeling system.