Future University

Faculty of engineering

Smart early warning system for floods

and flash floods

Prepared by :
Nazar Khalid Ali 201935081
Momin Elfadil Mohamed 201635032

Supervised by :
Dr : Duaa Mohamed
Table contents
Table content ……………………………………………………………………………………. 2
Table of figures…………………………..………………………………………………………. 3

Chapter one …………………………………………………………………....……..………… 4

1.1 Introduction ……………………………………………………………..……..……………. 5

1.2 statement of problem ………………………………………………..….…...…….…………. 6

1.3 significance of the study ……………………………………………………….……………. 6

1.4. statement of research objective ……………………………………….…..……...…………. 7

1.5 thesis outline ………………………………………………………………….…..…………. 7

1.6 definition of terms ……………………………………………………………………....……7

Chapter two …………………………………………………………………………….………. 8

2.1 theoretical background …………………………………………………………….….…….. 9

2.2 History of Smart Early Warning Systems for Floods …………………………....………….. 9

2.3 Related Studies ………………………………………………………………….……….…. 10

Chapter three ……………………………………………………………………………….. 13

3.1 Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………… 14

3.2 methodology ……………………………………………………………………….………. 14

3.3 the block diagram ………………………………………………………..…………………. 20

3.4 Flow chart ………………………………………………………………………………….. 21

3.5 the block diagram ………………………………………………………..…………………. 22

3.6 reference. …………………………………………………………………..………………. 23

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Table of figures:
3.2.1 Arduino Uno (Microcontroller Board)…………………………......................………… 14

3.2.2 Water Level Sensor……………………………………………………………………… 15

3.2.3 433MHz RF Transmitter and Receiver………………………..……………………...… 16

3.2.4 Buzzer Module……………………………………………………………….....……… 17

3.2.5 LED Module (RGB)…………………………………………………………………… 18

3.2.6 Solar Panel………………………………………………………………..……………. 19

3.3 the block diagram………………………………………………………..……………….. 20
3.4 Flow chart……………………………………………………………..………………..… 21

3.6 Circuit diagram……………………………………………………...………………..…... 22

Table of tables :
2.3.1.1 table of previous studies ……………………………………………………….……… 10

2.3.2.1 table of previous studies ……………………………………………………….……… 11

2.3.3.1 table of previous studies ……………………………………………………….……… 12

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Chapter one
Introduction

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1.1 Introduction

Floods and flash floods are among the most destructive natural disasters globally,
causing substantial losses in lives, property, and infrastructure every year. This
impact is particularly pronounced in developing countries, where early warning
systems are often inadequate and infrastructure is insufficient. In recent years,
climate change has led to a marked increase in the frequency and severity of such
events, further exacerbating the risks faced by vulnerable and disaster-prone
communities. Statistics indicate that many rural and remote areas lack effective and
economically viable solutions for timely flood detection and response.
Against this backdrop, there is a pressing need to develop smart early warning
systems for floods and flash floods that leverage modern technologies while
remaining simple, reliable, and cost-effective. Such systems aim to enhance
community preparedness and disaster response by providing timely alerts that help
minimize human and material losses. This approach is particularly significant in
the context of ongoing development challenges, as effective early warning systems
can play a crucial role in disaster risk reduction and the achievement of sustainable
development goals.

This project focuses on the design and development of a smart early warning
system for floods and flash floods, drawing on the latest advances in sensing,
communication, and renewable energy technologies. The project aspires to offer a
practical and efficient solution that can be implemented in resource-limited
settings, thereby strengthening community resilience in the face of escalating
climate risks. Furthermore, it seeks to contribute to the scientific and practical
literature in the field of disaster management, and to open new avenues for the
application of smart technologies in serving the most at-risk populations.

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1.2 Statement of the problem:

Rural areas in Sudan lack effective flood early warning systems due to the high
cost and complexity of conventional solutions, which worsens the consequences of
natural disasters. This project aims to design a low-cost system using Arduino and
RF technology to deliver reliable and timely local alerts when water levels rise.

1.3 Significance of the Study

innovation democratizes access to disaster resilience technologies, bridging the gap between
expensive industrial systems and grassroots needs. The project’s open-source framework further
encourages localized adaptations, fostering community-led solutions to climate-driven The
proposed Arduino-based early warning system addresses critical gaps in existing flood
monitoring by combining low-cost sensors, wireless RF communication. Its modular design
enables deployment in remote areas lacking internet connectivity, providing a vital lifeline for
communities vulnerable to rapid-onset flooding events. By correlating water-level data with pre-
calibrated risk thresholds, the system offers actionable warnings through multisensory alerts
(LEDs and buzzers), enhancing evacuation readiness during critical phases. This hydrological
threats.

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1.4 Statement of research objective
1.4.1 Main Objective
To develop an automated early warning system that improves the accuracy and speed of flood
and flash flood detection while minimizing manual intervention, through continuous water level
monitoring and instant alerts via wireless communication. The system aims to empower
communities for early response, enhance safety, and support sustainable risk management in
flood-prone areas.

1.4.2 Specific Objectives:

• To integrate water level sensors with Arduino for real-time data collection.
• To implement RF modules for wireless transmission of critical alerts.
• To develop a warning system using buzzers and LED lights for public notification.
• To evaluate the efficiency of solar energy as a sustainable power source.
• To test and calibrate system responses to different water levels and simulate real flood
conditions .

1.5 Thesis Outline

In Chapter 1, the smart early warning system for floods and flash floods is introduced,
highlighting its significance for disaster risk reduction and the main objectives it seeks to
accomplish. Chapter 2 presents the theoretical background of flood detection technologies and
reviews related studies and existing solutions in early warning systems. Chapter 3 details the
methodology for developing the proposed system, including a description of its components,
assembly process, and how each part contributes to achieving the project’s goal .

1.6 Definitions of Terms

 Water Level Sensor: A sensor that detects the level of water and sends analog signals.
 RF Transmitter/Receiver: Radio frequency modules for sending and receiving data
wirelessly.
 Buzzer Module: An audio alert system that emits sound at certain water levels.

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Chapter two
Literature Review

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2.1 Theoretical Background

Smart early warning systems for floods and flash floods integrate principles from
environmental monitoring, sensor technology, wireless communication, and embedded systems.
The core aim is to create automated, real-time solutions capable of detecting hazardous water
level changes and issuing timely alerts to at-risk communities. These systems utilize water level
sensors to continuously monitor environmental conditions, while microcontrollers such as
Arduino process sensor data and trigger wireless communication modules for immediate
notification.

2.2 History of Smart Early Warning Systems for Floods

The development of automated flood warning systems traces its roots to the late 20th century,
when communities began transitioning from manual hydrological monitoring to sensor-based
technologies. Early systems relied on rudimentary rain gauges and river level markers, requiring
human operators to interpret data and issue alerts process prone to delays and inaccuracies.

With the increasing risks and frequency of floods, especially in the last two decades, Sudan has
moved towards developing more specialized systems for flood monitoring, supported by
international organizations such as the United Nations and the World Meteorological
Organization. In recent years, initiatives like "Early Warning for All" have been launched to
enhance Sudan’s capabilities in data collection, analysis, and flood forecasting, with a focus on
bridging gaps in monitoring, communication, and community preparedness, particularly in
fragile and conflict-affected areas.
Some Sudanese cities have witnessed the establishment of early warning operation rooms, such
as the Early Warning Room in Port Sudan, aiming to improve rapid response and efficiency in
facing floods and climate crises. National cadres have also been trained to use modern tools for
disaster data collection and analysis, such as the "DesInventar-Sendai" program, to facilitate loss
tracking and the development of response plans.

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2.3 Related Studies
2.3.1 Application of GSM Communication System on Flood Alarm
Systems
Authors: Mary Glory et al. Year: 2019
Description:
This study created a GSM-based flood alert system using ultrasonic sensors and
a GSM SIM900 module. The system automatically sends SMS alerts when water levels
exceed safe limits, helping in emergency evacuation.

2.3.1.1 table of previous studies

Represents the compression between previous studies
Mary glory et al. Our Project : Smart Early
name Study (2019) Warning System for Floods

Design and • GSM-based alert system . • Arduino .

technology • Ultrasonic sensor . • Water Level Sensor.
• GSM sim900 module . • Rf Modules .
• Arduino uno . • Solar power.
Control method • Automatic SMS sending when • Local control via RF
water levels exceed safe limits . modules .
• Communication via mobile • Not rely on internet .
network (GSM).
performance • Reliable communication in low- • Reliable alerts even in low
internet areas . or no connectivity areas .
• Remote alerts via text message. • Continuous operation with
• Useful for rural and flood-prone solar power .
regions .
Unique features • Works in areas with limited • Operation rural and remote
internet connectivity . areas.
• Use cellular network for • unaffected by internet or
communication . power outages .
• Remote alerts emergence to • easy maintenance .
facilitate emergency evacuation . • low cost .

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2.3.2 Community-Based Flood Alert System Using Long-Range
Technology
Authors: Adrian Paul N. Abella and Dr. Michelle D. Enriquez Year: 2021
Description:
This study focuses on developing a community-based flood alert system for
Barangay San Agustin, Philippines. It integrates Arduino Uno, LoRa, GSM modules, and
water level sensors to detect rising water levels and send alert messages to residents
within 10 seconds, facilitating prompt community response.

2.3.2.1 table of previous studies

Represents the compression between previous studies
Community-Based Flood Our Project : Smart Early
name Alert System (Abella & Warning System for Floods
Enriquez, 2021)
Design and • Arduino Uno microcontroller • Arduino .
technology • LoRa (Long Range) • Water Level Sensor.
technology • Rf Modules .
• GSM module • Solar power.
• Water level sensors
Control method • Arduino processes sensor data • Local control via RF modules .
• Sends alerts through LoRa • Not rely on internet .
and GSM
• Text messages send to
residents mobile phones
• Alert messages delivered
within 10 seconds
performance • Rapid message delivery • Reliable alerts even in low or
(within 10 seconds). no connectivity areas .
• Community focused • Continuous operation with
approach. solar power .
• Dependent on cellular
network coverage .
• Direct alerts to mobile
devices.
Unique features • Integration of Lora GSM • Operation rural and remote
technologies areas.
• Specifically design for • unaffected by internet or power
barangay san augastin outages .
• .Rapid alert dissemination to • easy maintenance .
mobile phone. • low cost .

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2.3.3 IoT-Based Flood Monitoring and Alerting System Using
Arduino Uno
Authors: Sukanth Behera and Saradiya Kishore Parida.
Year: 2022.
Description:
This research presents an IoT-based flood monitoring system utilizing Arduino
Uno, water level sensors, and rain sensors. The system monitors water levels in lakes or
rivers and alerts nearby communities through IoT notifications, aiding in early evacuation
and disaster management.

2.3.3.1 table of previous studies

Represents the compression between previous studies
IoT-Based Flood Monitoring and Our Project : Smart Early
name Alerting System Warning System for Floods

Design and • Arduino ono with water level and • Arduino .

technology rain sensors • Water Level Sensor.
• IoT communication technology • Rf Modules .
• Single sensing mechanism • Solar power.
• Stander power connection
Control method • Centralized IoT platform • Local control via RF
• Cloud-based notification system modules .
internet- dependent data • Not rely on internet .
transmission
• Limited functionality during
network outages
performance • Capable of community-wide • Reliable alerts even in low
notification or no connectivity areas .
• Dependent on internet connectivity • Continuous operation with
• Fixed alert threshold solar power .
• Potential delays due to cloud
processing
Unique features • Integration with existing IoT • Operation rural and remote
ecosystem areas.
• Rain predication capability • unaffected by internet or
• Community -wide alert system power outages .
• Evacuation management capability • easy maintenance .
• low cost .

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Chapter three
Methodology

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3.1 Introduction
This project presents a smart, automated flood early warning system using Arduino Uno,
water level sensors, and RF modules for wireless alerts. Powered by solar energy, the system
provides visual and audio warnings, ensuring reliable operation in remote areas with limited
connectivity

3.2 methodology
3.2.1 Arduino Uno (Microcontroller Board)
Description:
The Arduino Uno is a microcontroller board based on the ATmega328P, commonly used in
educational and beginner electronics projects.

Specifications:
• Microcontroller: ATmega328P.
• Operating Voltage: 5V.
• Recommended Input Voltage: 7 to 12V.
• Digital I/O Pins: 14 (6 PWM outputs).
• Analog Input Pins: 6.
• Clock Speed: 16MHz.
• Dimensions: 68.6 x 53.4 mm.
• Weight: 25g.

3.2.1 Arduino Uno (Microcontroller Board)

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3.2.2 Water Level Sensor
Description:
The Water Level Sensor is used to detect the presence or level of water in a container. It
can be used in analog or digital mode depending on the application.

Specifications:
• Signal Type: Analog output (values from 0 to 500).
• Pins: 3 (VCC, GND, Signal).
• Operating Voltage: 5V.
• Application: Can detect water levels or leaks.

3.2.2 Water Level Sensor

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3.2.3 433MHz RF Transmitter and Receiver
Description:
This RF (Radio Frequency) module is used for wireless communication. The transmitter
sends signals, and the receiver picks them up, typically at a frequency of 433.92MHz.

Specifications:
• Frequency: 433.92 MHz.
• Receiver Operating Voltage: 5V.
• Transmitter Operating Voltage: 3V to 12V.
• Modulation Type: ASK.
• Current Consumption: < 40mA.

3.2.3 433MHz RF Transmitter and Receiver

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3.2.4 Buzzer Module
Description:
An active buzzer module that emits sound when powered. It's typically used for alerts
or alarms in electronic projects.

Specifications:
• Type: Active buzzer (built-in oscillator).
• Operating Voltage: 3 to 5V.
• Current: Less than 30mA.
• Dimensions: 20 x 20 mm.
• Sound Level: Approx. 85 dB.

3.2.4 Buzzer Module

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3.2.5 LED Module (RGB)
Description:
An RGB LED module capable of displaying multiple colors by adjusting PWM signals
on the red, green, and blue channels.

Specifications:
• Operating Voltage: 5V.
• Driving Mode: Common cathode.
• LED Diameter: 5mm.
• Board Size: 15 x 19 mm.

3.2.5 LED Module (RGB)

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3.2.6 Solar Panel
Description:
A solar panel is a device that converts sunlight into electrical energy. It is used in many
electronics and IoT projects as a renewable power source for charging batteries or powering
devices directly.

Specifications:
• Output Voltage: 5V (can vary by model).
• Output Current: 100mA to 500mA
(depending on size and sunlight).
• Power: ~2.5W.
• Dimensions: Typically around 110mm x 70mm x 3mm.
• Material: Monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon.
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to 85°C.
• Usage: Can power small devices or charge batteries with solar energy.

3.2.6 Solar Panel

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3.3 the block diagram

3.3 the block diagram

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3.4 Flow chart
start

Read water level

is level
no Yes
>
normal
is level >
Do nothing
warning

Turn on led
and buzzer

Is level >=
critical

Activate
flood gates

end

3.4 Flow chart

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3.6 Circuit diagram

3.6 Circuit diagram

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3.6 reference.
3.5.1 Solar-Powered Flood Early Warning System with SMS Notifications
Authors: Mohd Azizi et al.2020
This study presents a flood.
alert system powered by solar energy, employing water level sensors and GSM modules to send
SMS alerts to residents.
It uses LEDs to indicate different water levels: safe, alert, and danger.
https://scispace.com/papers/flood-detection-using-arduino-22afhyh1?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3.5.2 Proposed Early-Warning System for Floods of Al-Hawad Valley
Northern Sudan
Authors: Mohamed Elhassan et al.2025.
This study proposes an automated early warning system for floods in the Kaboshia area of
Northern Sudan. It focuses on alerting residents before flooding events to minimize damage.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/389545590_Proposed_Early-
_Warning_System_for_Floods_of_Al-Hawad_Valley_Northern_Sudan
3.5.3 Flood Monitoring in Sudan
Organization: Flood base in collaboration with the World Food Programmer 2021
This case study discusses how flood intelligence was used to support flood monitoring,
emergency response, and risk analysis throughout the 2021 rainy season in Sudan.
https://www.floodbase.com/case-studies/sudan
3.5.4 Early Warning Systems for Floods in Sudan
UNDRR - Early Warning Systems.
United Nations guide on how early warning systems can reduce disaster risk, with global and
regional examples.
https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/climate-solutions/early-warning-systems
3.5.5 Early Warning System for Flash Floods Nile Basin Initiative
Real-time flood forecasting system designed for countries along the Nile River, including Sudan.
https://nilebasin.org/nile-basin-flash-flood-early-warning-system-nb-ffews

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