The Early Warning System: an additional decision-support tool

Coupled with an early warning system, BWI’s hydrological forecasts constitute a real decision-support tool for water resource managers. The forecasts provided by BWI make it possible to set alert thresholds according to flow levels, whether anticipating a flood risk or detecting stress linked to a decrease in the resource. By offering this proactive monitoring capability, the early warning system helps trigger the right actions at the right time, reinforcing the safety of territories and the resilience of industries with interests along rivers.

A dual configuration of early warnings

The forecasting horizon

BWI offers three forecasting horizons: at 1, 3, and 10 days. This flexibility makes it possible to adapt anticipation to the need, whether it is an immediate reaction to an imminent risk, short-term operational planning, or medium-term strategic management.

The alert criterion

The system allows alerts to be configured according to two logics: on the one hand, the crossing of a specific value (a flow threshold above which a flood risk is detected, or below which resource stress appears); on the other hand, the crossing of an hourly variation threshold (a sharp increase or decrease in flow within one hour). This dual approach offers maximum precision and adaptability to address different types of hydrological risks (floods, water resource stress requiring the issuance of drought decrees).

Tailored and customized alerts

Alerts by email, SMS, or voice message

Users can choose to receive their alerts by email, SMS, or voice message (the latter two as options), according to their preferences and operational needs. This diversity of channels ensures fast and reliable transmission of information, even in emergency situations.

Characterization of the intensity and duration of an event

Each alert includes a precise characterization of the intensity and duration of the event. This information makes it possible to assess the severity of the situation and adjust the response accordingly.

Continuous and automated monitoring

Reception of automated alert bulletins

The system automatically delivers analytical bulletins, providing a clear and concise overview of the hydrological situation. These regular reports facilitate decision-making and the sharing of information among stakeholders.

Updated twice a day for hydrological risk monitoring

The data and alerts are updated twice a day, ensuring near real-time monitoring. This frequent updating guarantees optimal responsiveness to incidents and rapid changes in river conditions.

Operation process of BWI’s early warning system

Configuration of the flood or drought alert strategy

Upstream

Le système est paramétré selon vos besoins : définition de seuils de débit (crues, sécheresses, variations rapides) et création de listes de diffusion adaptées à vos équipes ou partenaires. Cette préparation assure la pertinence et l’efficacité des alertes à venir.

Trend towards flood alertness

D-10

Ten days before, the first trends are identified and reported. This stage makes it possible to anticipate a potentially critical situation and to prepare the first vigilance measures.

Inland water forecasts for public authorities

Flood vigilance and crisis management in case of an event

D-3 to D-1

As the event approaches, forecasts become more detailed and precise. Two daily updates make it possible to track developments in real time, while anticipating the duration and intensity of the hydrological episode.

Whether it involves floods or the end of a drought period (or the decision to issue a drought decree), the alerts act as an additional — albeit digital — “sensor” at the service of decision-makers.

Thunderstorm

Alert on the course of the event

D-Day

On the day of the event, continuous data provide information on the exact development of the situation. This responsiveness ensures optimal management of crisis or evacuation actions and real-time adaptation to the simulated hydrological conditions.

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