Sensor-Actuator-Based Network for an early-warning system in extreme weather conditions

Damages caused by extreme weather have increased dramatically. Although extreme weather cannot be prevented, in many cases damages could be avoided or at least contained if affected citizens and institutions were specifically warned in sufficient time. In this context an early warning system is presented that registers approaching thunderstorms by means of specifically developed sensors which are located in close proximity to each other. The meteorological data obtained from this close-meshed sensor network in addition to the conventional techniques of radar and satellite provide the basis for short-term weather and rainwater run-off prognoses that are locally confined to small urban areas. In order to provide an efficient, situation-dependent and reliable distribution of warnings, an information logistic engine has been developed which combines spatial information of affected citizens or technical actuators, its information demand and the necessary processes for the automatic prevention of hazards. Using such information as input of hydrodynamic simulations of the sewer network, allows alerting citizens and emergency services of flooded streets. This is but one practical application of such an early warning system. Due to the combination of those heterogeneous actuators in an actuator network the process of mitigation of danger in extreme weather conditions can optimally be supported.