Smart Flood Alert: Using Technology to Combat Flooding in Vietnam

Flooding has been one of the most destructive natural disasters in Vietnam, especially in rural areas and the Red River Delta. Each year, the country faces the devastating impacts of floods, leading to loss of life, destruction of property, and widespread displacement. In fact, the major flood of 2024 caused 320 fatalities, 25 missing people, and over 283,000 homes were damaged, according to reports from the United Nations【source: UNDP】. Given the severity of this issue, the need for advanced technology to provide early warnings and minimize damage has never been more pressing.

• The Birth of Smart Flood Alert

The idea for Smart Flood Alert emerged from my previous community involvement, where I realized the absence of a reliable early flood warning system in flood-prone rural areas. This gap in safety motivated me to design a solution that would leverage IoT technology to monitor water levels and send alerts to local residents and authorities. The ultimate goal is to prevent loss of life and property by providing timely, actionable information.

• How the Technology Works

The Smart Flood Alert system uses ultrasonic water-level sensors connected to ESP-32 microcontrollers, which measure water levels with high precision. The data is transmitted in real-time, ensuring immediate awareness of rising water levels. To enhance the system’s effectiveness, we’ve integrated LoRa technology to ensure stable signal transmission even in remote areas. With a range of up to 5 km, this feature is perfect for mountainous regions where traditional communication methods often fail.

Additionally, the system includes a remote camera monitoring system that offers real-time visuals of high-risk areas, allowing authorities and residents to assess the situation quickly and plan their response accordingly. This feature is especially useful during the flood crisis, where visual monitoring can help guide rescue operations and evacuations.

• Making a Real Impact on Communities

The Smart Flood Alert project aims to do more than just provide alerts—it strives to empower communities. Raising awareness about flood risks and providing the tools to respond proactively is key to minimizing the impact of flooding. By utilizing this technology, we can help reduce the loss of life and property and ensure that local residents are equipped to handle flood situations more effectively.

The feedback from local communities, especially in flood-prone areas, has been incredibly encouraging. With more than 20 households involved in early testing, we’ve seen firsthand how valuable this technology can be for improving local disaster preparedness. This system is not just about technology; it’s about creating a culture of awareness and proactive action to protect lives and property.

• Looking Ahead

As technology continues to evolve, it’s clear that solutions like Smart Flood Alert will play an essential role in disaster prevention. The project is a small yet significant step in building more resilient and prepared communities in Vietnam, and the potential for future growth is immense. By integrating IoT and real-time monitoring systems into flood response strategies, we’re creating a more sustainable and safer future for the most vulnerable populations.

The journey has just begun, and we’re excited to continue working with communities and local authorities to expand the reach and impact of Smart Flood Alert. Together, we can reduce the devastation caused by floods and build a future where communities are empowered and ready to face nature’s challenges head-on.

Let’s work together to make a difference and protect lives