In-Situ, Near Real Time and Low Cost Image Velocimetry for Debris Flows and Flash Flood Monitoring in the Chilean Andes

Debris flows and flash floods occur frequently in Chile due to geology, geomorphology and weather, costing human lives and impacting settlements, infrastructure and economic activities. One of the problems relates to the lack of adequate monitoring technology in remote areas with limited connectivity. We have developed a low cost system that processes acquired lidar and image data in-situ with a Raspberry Pi obtaining flow level and velocity and transmits near real time via satellite (or cellular network if available). The low implementation cost allows to replicate the system in the many hazardous sites, as well as advance towards early warning systems in locations with limited communication networks. The velocimetry method consists of two steps: first obtaining the images, and then a brightness filter and normalized cross correlation. To eliminate outliers a flow direction filter is used, and velocities are obtained by tracking of flow surface elements. Also the flow level is measured with a lidar also connected to the R-Pi. We will present both laboratory and field test results.