An algorithm for mapping flooded areas through analysis of satellite imagery and terrestrial relief features

Abstract

We address a problem of the joint processing of digital maps of the earth surface and satellite imagery of flooded areas as part of the software intended to help authorities to respond to emergency situations. The problem of mapping flooded areas is solved based on the use of satellite images and GIS technologies. This paper describes an algorithm for mapping areas submerged by flooded rivers based on radar satellite images and analysis of characteristic relief features, allowing one to improve the accuracy of the image geolocation with a small number of reference points. The experimental studies demonstrate that using the algorithm proposed, the alignment accuracy of the river water surface obtained from a satellite image and from a digital topographic map has increased by 40%.