Towards the coordinated and fit-for-purpose deployment of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs) for flood risk management in England

Preparedness for flood emergency response is crucial for effective flood management. The need for advanced flood decision support tools that aid flood management has been recognized by several authors. This work examines the variability that currently exists across England with regard to the Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) data collection and processing strategy in flood emergency events. Expert elicitation was carried out using a tailored questionnaire about UAS deployment in three flood emergency scenarios. The survey highlighted that reduced equipment assembly time, a national network of appropriately qualified UAS pilots and the effective UAS deployment when on-site, can reduce the response time to flood emergency. For improved comparability and reduced bias in data collection and interpretation, clear guidelines on which data products are most beneficial for particular purposes, processing time required, platform and sensor selection may also be necessary. We consider that releasing a comprehensive documentation pack, which includes guidelines, standards and protocols that detail the methods, tools, technology, quantity and quality of data, to UAS pilots on a flood emergency call, will enhance the timely response.

Automated summary

This study examines the variability in the strategy of using Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for data collection and processing during flood emergency events in England. The survey results highlight the importance of reducing equipment assembly time, establishing a network of qualified UAS pilots, and effective on-site UAS deployment in reducing the response time to flood emergencies. Clear guidelines and standards may be necessary to improve data collection and interpretation. Releasing a comprehensive documentation pack for UAS pilots involved in flood emergency calls can enhance timely response.