Australian researchers prove world-leading flood sensing technologyby University of Technology, Sydneyedited by Sadie Harley, reviewed by Andrew...

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Australian researchers prove world-leading flood sensing technology
by University of Technology, Sydney

edited by Sadie Harley, reviewed by Andrew Zinin
Editors' notes
Flood digital twin output using 2022 rainfall data for the area of the Murrumbidgee River in Wagga Wagga. Credit: University of Technology, Sydney
With flooding now an ever-present danger for communities in Australia and around the world, Australian researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of world-first real-time water level and rainfall sensing technology using existing mobile phone networks.


In a project supported by the New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES) and the NSW Government, University of Technology Sydney (UTS) researchers working with industry partner TPG Telecom have completed field trials proving that artificial intelligence-driven processing of data derived from 5G mobile networks in conjunction with a flood digital twin—a virtual replica that mirrors its real-world counterpart—can deliver unprecedented accuracy in flood monitoring and prediction.

The technology was showcased at an official demonstration on 16 June at Iron Cove on the Parramatta River in Sydney.

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the Smart Flood and Storm Intelligence project could help communities access important storm and flood information faster.

"This technology has potential to improve disaster response, mitigating loss of life and enhancing community resilience across NSW."

NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Commissioner Mike Wassing ASFM said the collaboration with UTS on the Smart Flood and Sensing Intelligence project shone a light on the possibilities technology opened for operational intelligence and enhanced response coordination.

"This technology has the potential to provide the NSW SES with next-level capabilities, such as accurate real-time information and predictive intelligence which could help better inform our warnings and response," Commissioner Wassing said.

"While there is more testing to be done, this could revolutionize our command centers, fast-track intelligence, better inform operational posturing and save lives in the future."
SOURCE: https://phys.org/news/2025-06-australian-world-technology.html

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