Detection of Water Level with Level Sensors in Bartin Stream and Its Branches and Its Integration to Flood Early Warning System

Abstract

Flash floods are a major threat to life and property. Various measures should be taken to minimize these losses. Flood early warning systems are one of these measures. In this study, ultrasonic and radar distance sensors were installed on the Bartin River and other tributaries feeding this river to detect water levels. With the data obtained from the installed level sensors, the changes in the water level in the riverbed are monitored instantaneously. The data obtained, together with meteorological forecasts, is fed into the hydrological model and warnings are generated 24-72 hours in advance. The knowledge of the water level rise in the regions outside the central settlement of the Bartin River enables the possibility of flooding in the central regions to be determined with a high degree of accuracy and the necessary measures to be taken. Each data station consumes about 30 Wh of energy. The energy capacity of each station is designed to be 960 Wh. This will allow the system to operate for long periods without sunlight. As part of this study, 32 level sensor stations have been installed on the Bartin River and its tributaries. The data obtained from these stations are sent via 4G modems to the central server established at Bartin University Kutlubey Campus. The data from the stations increases the accuracy of the early flood warning system. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.