Satellite Spots Large-Scale River Waves for First Time

a year ago

NASA and Virginia Tech researchers used satellite data to measure flood waves in U.S. rivers for the first time.
Three tracked flood waves were caused by extreme rainfall and a loosened ice jam.
The study highlights the potential of space-based observations to aid hydrologists and engineers in flood-prone areas.
River waves, unlike ocean waves, are temporary surges caused by rainfall or snowmelt, essential for nutrient transport but can be hazardous.
The SWOT satellite, launched in 2022, uses Ka-band Radar Interferometer (KaRIn) to map water body elevations and widths.
Three river waves were identified, including one on the Yellowstone River with a 9.1-foot-tall crest.
Other waves were triggered by rainfall runoff on the Colorado and Ocmulgee rivers.
Satellite data complements traditional stream gauges, filling gaps in global flood monitoring.
SWOT is expected to observe 55% of large-scale floods, aiding in early flood detection and risk assessment.

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