MBZUAI looks to AI-powered solutions for extreme weather events following recent flooding in Gulf region

Summary

MBZUAI researchers are developing an AI-powered tool for flood assessment using satellite data and computer vision, prompted by the recent extreme weather in the Gulf region. The prototype analyzes spatial satellite imagery from before and after the storm to detect changes and identify heavily impacted roads and critical infrastructure. The tool uses AI models, Sentinel-2 imagery, and OpenStreetMap data to locate affected areas and estimate water depth. Why it matters: This research offers a way to automate and improve rapid response to extreme weather events, providing local authorities with critical information for rescue, recovery, and future urban planning in the face of climate change.