South Korea Tests Advanced Urban Flood Simulation to Combat Climate Change Threats

As climate change intensifies extreme weather events, South Korea is stepping up its efforts to combat the growing threat of urban flooding. At the Korea Construction Engineering Research Institute (KOCER) in Andong, a cutting-edge 'Urban Flood Pilot Testbed' is recreating the complex infrastructure of Seoul's Banpo River area to simulate devastating flood scenarios.

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If the water supply increases by 4 times, it's natural to think that flooding will also increase by 4 times, but in reality, it increases by 6 times. This is because the degree of drainage is exponentially increasing due to various variables in the city that we do not yet know, such as foreign substances accumulated in the rainwater pipes.

This state-of-the-art facility allows researchers to precisely measure how urban drainage systems cope with intense rainfall. Initial experiments reveal a startling reality: a fourfold increase in water flow can lead to a sixfold increase in flooding. This non-linear effect, researchers explain, is due to various unknown variables within urban environments, such as debris accumulation in drainage pipes, which severely hampers water outflow.

The KOCER testbed is more than just a simulation; it's a crucial component in developing a sophisticated 'urban flood forecasting' system. Unlike current systems that primarily focus on river overflows, this new technology aims to provide real-time alerts about potential flooding in residential areas. This is particularly vital following the tragic 2022 incident in Sillim-dong, Seoul, where a flash flood in a semi-basement apartment claimed the lives of an entire family.

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Currently, 'flood forecasts' only provide information about the risk of river overflows, but as time goes by, urban flood forecasts that inform citizens about the actual occurrence of flooding in their residential areas are becoming increasingly important.

By integrating AI and radar technology, KOCER is creating a high-resolution prediction platform. The data generated from the pilot testbed will be instrumental in refining flood warning systems, enabling timely evacuation notices, and ultimately saving lives. This proactive approach, driven by rigorous scientific research and a commitment to public safety, is essential for building resilient cities in the face of escalating climate challenges.

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We provided the data, such as the rate of water level rise per hour, verified here, to the Seoul Institute of Urbanism and Architecture, and they plan to convert it into rainfall intensity for use.