RESEARCH PAPER

IOT based Rainfall and Flood Monitoring with Hydro-

Electric Power Generation
Sri Krish International School
Authors: Azeem, Amirdesh

Submission for the Stockholm junior water prize

2024

Title of the report

Integrating Hydro-Electric Power Generation with IoT-Based Flood Monitoring and Climate
Control

Names

1. Abdul Azeem M

2. Amirdesh P.S
Abstract

This research paper explores an innovative IoT-based solution. The primary objective is to
utilize floodwater effectively by generating hydroelectricity and providing real-time risk alerts
regarding water levels in dams and flood-prone areas. The project aims to use floodwater in a
useful way by producing hydroelectricity and providing risk alerts to people about water levels
in dams and flood-prone areas. The system integrates an Arduino Uno, ESP-01 ESP8266 Wi-
Fi module, rain sensors, ultrasonic sensors, a turbine, a motor, Firebase, and the
OpenWeatherMap API to enhance the accuracy of rainfall alerts and deliver real-time data
through a custom-built app created with Kodular. Additionally, LED lights are incorporated to
visually indicate various flood risk levels. By tackling the real-world challenges of floodwater
management, this system provides a scalable and efficient solution for flood risk monitoring
and mitigation, contributing to better preparedness and public safety.

Biography

The IoT-Based Rainfall and Flood Monitoring with Hydro-Electric Power Generation project is
an innovative solution designed to address critical issues like flood management, water resource
utilization, and renewable energy generation. Developed by Azeem and Amirdesh, 9th-grade
students from Sri Krish International School, this project integrates IoT technologies with
environmental sustainability principles. The project incorporates a range of components,
including Arduino Uno, ESP8266 Wi-Fi module, rain and ultrasonic sensors, and a hydroelectric
turbine. These devices work together to monitor rainfall, assess flood risks, and evaluate dam
water levels in real time. By utilizing Firebase and the OpenWeatherMap API, the system
ensures accurate data collection and processing, with results displayed on a user-friendly mobile
app developed in Kodular. LED indicators provide instant visual alerts for flood risk levels (low,
moderate, high), while the turbine generates electricity from flowing water, contributing to
renewable energy solutions. This holistic approach not only enhances disaster preparedness but
also optimizes water resource management. This project stands out for its scalability and real-
world applicability, addressing challenges in both urban and rural settings. By combining
technology with environmental stewardship, Azeem and Amirdesh aim to create a safer, more
sustainable future while inspiring others to explore the potential of IoT in solving global
challenges.
Keywords:

 IoT (Internet of Things)

 Rainfall monitoring
 Flood risk
 Hydroelectricity generation
 Real-time alerts
 Arduino Uno
 ESP-01 ESP8266
 Rain sensor
 Ultrasonic sensor
 Firebase
 OpenWeatherMap API
 Kodular app
 LED indicators
 ACS712 current sensor
 OLED display
 Water level monitoring
 Flood prevention
 Data transmission
 Wireless communication
 Cloud integration
 Risk categorization
 Disaster management
Abbreviations and Acronyms:

 IoT: Internet of Things

 ESP-01: ESP8266 Wi-Fi Module
 API: Application Programming Interface
 ACS712: Current Sensor Module
 OLED: Organic Light Emitting Diode
 Wi-Fi: Wireless Fidelity
 GPS: Global Positioning System

Acknowledgement

We would like to thank Sri Krish International School for giving us the opportunity to work on
this project and for providing the resources and guidance needed to complete it successfully.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to our teacher, Sharath sir, Chibicharan sir and Suresh sir, for their
encouragement, support, and insightful advice throughout this project. Their guidance played a
crucial role in shaping our understanding and execution.

We also want to thank our friends and classmates for their encouragement and helpful feedback,
which motivated us to do our best. Lastly, we are deeply grateful to our families for their
constant support and patience during this journey.

Thank you to everyone who contributed in any way to the completion of this project.
Introduction

Flooding remains one of the most significant natural disasters worldwide, causing widespread
damage to agriculture, infrastructure, and communities. According to the World Health
Organization (WHO), floods are the most common natural disaster, leading to considerable loss
of life, property, and resources. These disasters often devastate crops, homes, and critical
infrastructure, severely disrupting local economies. Efficient flood monitoring systems are
essential for assessing flood risks, enabling early warnings, and minimizing the impact of
flooding. Traditional flood monitoring techniques, including manual measurements, lack the
real-time capabilities necessary for addressing rapidly evolving flood situations. The introduction
of Internet of Things (IoT) technology offers an innovative approach to flood monitoring,
providing real-time data that can enhance decision-making and response times.

This research focuses on the development of an IoT-based flood monitoring system designed to
provide real-time data on rainfall intensity, assess flood risks, and monitor hydroelectricity
generation potential and dam water levels. By integrating various sensors and cloud platforms,
the system aims to provide accurate, timely information to emergency responders, local
authorities, and the public. Accurate flood risk assessment is vital for effective disaster
management, particularly in flood-prone areas.

The system utilizes an Arduino platform connected to an ESP-01 ESP8266 Wi-Fi module,
which wirelessly transmits rainfall data from a rain sensor to cloud platforms such as Firebase
and OpenWeatherMap. This system categorizes flood risks into three levels: Low, Moderate,
and High, based on predefined rainfall thresholds. Additionally, it tracks dam water levels and
evaluates hydroelectric potential by analyzing water flow data. A mobile application, developed
using Kodular, displays real-time data on rainfall, flood risks, water levels, and hydroelectricity
potential while sending notifications for changes in flood risk.

In conclusion, this project presents an IoT-based solution for real-time flood monitoring, aiming
to improve flood resilience, provide timely alerts, and optimize water resource management.
Literature Review

Flood Monitoring and Early Warning Systems

Flooding has long been a challenge for communities worldwide, particularly in areas prone to
heavy rainfall and extreme weather. Traditional flood monitoring systems typically rely on manual
data collection and delayed reporting, which often fail to provide timely warnings. In recent years,
IoT-based solutions have emerged as an effective method for real-time flood monitoring.
According to Gajbhiye et al. (2017), IoT systems integrated with sensors can collect and transmit
data such as rainfall intensity, water levels, and environmental conditions to cloud platforms for
further analysis, offering real-time insights. This helps in early flood detection and risk assessment,
leading to quicker decision-making.

One significant benefit of IoT systems is their ability to provide more accurate and timely data
than traditional systems, as highlighted by Salim et al. (2019). The use of sensors such as rain
gauges, water level sensors, and cameras integrated with wireless communication technologies
like Wi-Fi or LoRaWAN allows for continuous monitoring of flood-prone areas. These systems
can transmit critical data directly to central monitoring stations or mobile applications, where flood
risk levels are calculated, and alerts are sent to local authorities and residents.

Hydroelectricity Generation and IoT Integration

The potential for hydroelectricity generation has been explored for decades, particularly as a
renewable energy source. Recent advancements in IoT have made it possible to continuously
monitor water flow and assess the viability of hydroelectric power generation in real-time.
According to Wanjiru et al. (2018), IoT sensors placed in water bodies can measure flow velocity,
water level, and other parameters, enabling the optimization of hydroelectric systems. By
integrating IoT technologies with hydroelectric systems, operators can gain a deeper understanding
of energy generation potential based on real-time data, optimizing power production based on
available resources.

In addition, IoT can facilitate predictive maintenance for hydroelectric plants by constantly
monitoring equipment and infrastructure conditions, as noted by Zhang et al. (2020). This helps
reduce downtime and improve the overall efficiency of the power generation process.
Dam Water Level Monitoring

Dam water level monitoring is critical for flood prevention and management, particularly in
regions where dams are used for flood control or water supply. Traditional methods of dam
monitoring are labor-intensive and can be slow to respond to sudden changes in water levels.
However, IoT-based systems have improved the efficiency and accuracy of dam monitoring. IoT-
based solutions allow for real-time data collection of water levels and environmental factors at
various points in and around the dam.

According to Yu et al. (2016), integrating IoT systems with sensors that measure water level,
temperature, and pressure can provide real-time information that helps in assessing the safety of
the dam. These systems also aid in controlling water releases to prevent flooding, particularly in
emergency situations. The ability to continuously monitor water levels allows for proactive flood
risk management, significantly reducing the risks associated with sudden dam failures.

Integration of IoT for Comprehensive Water Resource Management

The combination of flood monitoring, hydroelectricity generation, and dam water level monitoring
through IoT presents a holistic approach to water resource management. According to Zang et al.
(2019), integrated systems can combine various data sources to improve flood risk prediction and
optimize water usage, especially in regions where water scarcity and flooding coexist. By linking
rainfall data, water levels, and hydroelectric potential, such systems can provide valuable insights
for both flood prevention and energy generation, contributing to more sustainable management of
water resources.
Components and Their Roles

1. Arduino Uno: Arduino Uno is a popular open-source microcontroller board based on the
ATmega328P chip. It features 14 digital input/output pins, 6 analog inputs, a USB connection, a
power jack, and a reset button. Designed for beginners and hobbyists, it is easy to program using
the Arduino IDE. The Uno is widely used in electronics projects for automation, prototyping, and
IoT applications due to its versatility and extensive community support. In our project this
microcontroller processes the data from the sensors and controls the entire system. It takes inputs,
performs calculations, and outputs the results. It communicates with the Wi-Fi module to send data
to the cloud.

2. ESP-01 Wi-Fi Module: The ESP-01 ESP8266 is a compact Wi-Fi module used for adding
internet connectivity to electronics projects. It features an ESP8266 chip with built-in Wi-Fi,
making it ideal for IoT applications. The module has 8 pins, including GPIO and power pins, and
supports AT commands for communication with microcontrollers like Arduino. Its low cost, small
size, and ability to connect devices to the internet make it popular for smart home and automation
projects. In our project this module enables the system to connect to the internet and send data to
Firebase. It communicates with the Arduino to upload the data to the cloud in real-time. It also
allows the system to fetch weather information via APIs.
3. Rain Sensor: A rain sensor is an electronic device used to detect and measure rainfall. It consists
of a sensing board with conductive traces that detect water when raindrops fall on it, triggering an
electrical signal. Commonly used in weather monitoring and automation projects, it can measure
rainfall intensity and activate systems like irrigation or alerts. Rain sensors are lightweight, easy
to use, and compatible with microcontrollers like Arduino for various applications. In our project
this rain sensor detects rainfall intensity and triggers an output based on its readings. It helps
determine the rain level—Low, Moderate, or High. This data is then used for alerts and displayed
in the app.

4. LED Indicators: An LED (Light Emitting Diode) is a semiconductor device that emits light
when an electric current flows through it. It is energy-efficient, long-lasting, and available in
various colors. LEDs are widely used in electronics for indicators, displays, and lighting
applications. They are compact, durable, and generate minimal heat compared to traditional bulbs,
making them ideal for a range of projects, from simple indicators to advanced IoT and automation
systems. In our project, LEDs are used to indicate flood risk levels and water levels in the dam. In
flood-prone areas, the yellow LED glows if there is a low level of water, the orange LED glows if
there is a moderate level of water, and the red LED glows if there is a high risk of water levels.
Similarly, in the dam, the LEDs glow according to the water risk level, with green indicating low
water levels, orange indicating moderate risk, and red indicating a high-risk level.
6. ACS712 Current sensor module: The ACS712 Current Sensor is a compact, low-cost device
used to measure current in electrical circuits. It works by detecting the magnetic field generated
by current flow using a Hall Effect sensor, providing an analog voltage output proportional to the
current. Available in various ranges (e.g., 5A, 20A, 30A), it supports both AC and DC current
measurement. Widely used in IoT, robotics, and power monitoring applications, it is easy to
integrate with microcontrollers like Arduino. In our project this sensor is used measure the voltage
flow from the hydro-electricity generator.

7. OLED Display (0.91 inch): An OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display is a type of
display technology that uses organic compounds to emit light when an electric current is applied.
Unlike traditional LED displays, OLEDs do not require a backlight, allowing for thinner and more
flexible screens. They provide high contrast, vibrant colors, and wide viewing angles. OLED
displays are widely used in smartphones, wearables, TVs, and various electronics for clear and
bright visuals. In our project this OLED display is used for displaying the flow of electric current
measured by the ACS712 current sensor.
8. Ultrasonic Sensor: An ultrasonic sensor is a device that uses high-frequency sound waves
(ultrasound) to measure distance or detect objects. It emits a sound wave and measures the time it
takes for the sound to bounce back after hitting an object. This time is then converted into a
distance measurement. Ultrasonic sensors are commonly used in applications like distance
measurement, object detection, and level sensing. They are accurate, non-invasive, and can work
in various environments. In our project, this ultrasonic sensor is used to measure the distance from
the land, allowing us to detect flood risks by identifying changes in water levels.
Cloud and Communication Components

Firebase: Firebase is a platform by Google that offers backend services for mobile and web
applications. It includes tools like a Realtime Database for syncing data across devices,
Authentication for secure logins, and Cloud Storage for managing files. Firebase also supports
Cloud Functions for running backend code. In our project, Firebase serves as the cloud platform
for storing and retrieving real-time sensor data. It provides a reliable, scalable database for your
system’s outputs. The system can send updates and notifications to the cloud for monitoring. It
sends the data to the app for notifying people.

OpenWeatherMap API: OpenWeatherMap API is a service that provides real-time weather data,
forecasts, and historical weather information. It allows developers to access data such as
temperature, humidity, rainfall, and wind speed through API calls. In your project, this API fetches
weather data (like rainfall intensity) to compare with your sensor readings. It enhances accuracy
by integrating external weather conditions, helping to assess risk levels and improve flood
monitoring. In our project this API provides real-time weather data, such as rainfall and weather
conditions. It helps validate the rain sensor readings and adds external weather data for more
accurate predictions. It integrates with your system for better analysis.

3. Kodular: Kodular is a visual programming platform that allows users to create mobile apps for
Android without needing to write traditional code. It uses a drag-and-drop interface where users
can build apps by arranging blocks that represent different functions and features. Kodular
simplifies app development for beginners and non-programmers, offering components for UI
design, databases, media, and sensors. It also provides easy integration with APIs, making it ideal
for creating interactive and functional apps. In our project, we have created an app using Kodular
to display water risk levels in the dam, flood risk in areas, and rainfall levels, with the rainfall data
integrated from the OpenWeatherMap API.
Methodology

This project involves the integration of hardware and software components to monitor rainfall
intensity, assess flood risks, and evaluate hydroelectricity generation potential and dam water
levels. The system design, data collection methods, transmission techniques, risk analysis, and
mobile application development are outlined below.

1. System Design and Setup

The system combines various hardware and software components for real-time data monitoring
and processing.

1.1 Hardware Components

 Arduino Uno: Serves as the microcontroller, processing input data from sensors.
 ESP-01 ESP8266 Wi-Fi Module: Facilitates wireless data transmission to cloud
platforms like Firebase and OpenWeatherMap API.
 Rain Sensor: Measures rainfall intensity for flood risk assessment.
 Water Level Sensors: Tracks dam water levels in real-time, assessing flood risks and
hydroelectric power potential.
 Hydroelectric Turbine Monitoring Sensors: Monitors water flow to estimate
hydroelectricity generation.

1.2 Software Components

 Arduino IDE: Used for programming the microcontroller and interfacing with hardware.
 Firebase: Stores sensor data (rainfall, water levels) and provides real-time updates.
 OpenWeatherMap API: Supplies weather data, including rainfall forecasts, to enhance
flood risk analysis.
 Kodular: A platform for developing a mobile app to display real-time system data.
2. Data Collection

The system collects, processes, and stores data from various sources:

 Rainfall Data: The rain sensor records rainfall intensity, transmitting the data to the
Arduino. This is then stored on Firebase via the ESP-01 module for analysis.
 Dam Water Level Monitoring: Water level sensors installed at key locations measure
water levels, and the data is sent to Firebase for real-time monitoring.
 Hydroelectricity Generation Data: Turbine monitoring sensors measure water flow,
enabling the calculation of hydroelectric potential.

3. Data Transmission

The project utilizes wireless communication to ensure efficient and seamless data flow:

 Wireless Communication: Data from sensors is transmitted wirelessly via the ESP-01
Wi-Fi module.
 Cloud Integration: Firebase serves as the central repository for sensor data, enabling
remote access and monitoring. OpenWeatherMap API provides external weather
forecasts to enhance risk assessment.

4. Risk Assessment and Data Processing

 Flood Risk Categorization: The system processes rainfall data to determine risk levels
(Low, Moderate, High) based on predefined thresholds. The results are communicated
through the mobile app.
 Hydroelectricity Potential Assessment: Water flow and dam level data are analyzed to
estimate the amount of energy that can be generated.

5. Mobile Application Development

The mobile application was developed using Kodular to provide users with real-time access to
system data:
  App Design: The app features an intuitive interface displaying rainfall intensity, flood
risk levels, dam water levels, and hydroelectricity potential.
 Data Visualization: Risk levels are color-coded (e.g., green for low risk, yellow for
moderate, and red for high). Graphical formats represent hydroelectric potential.
 Notifications: Users receive alerts based on changing risk levels or significant updates.

6. Testing and Validation

 System Testing: The sensors were tested under different environmental conditions to
ensure accuracy. Calibration was performed to validate the measurements against
standard benchmarks.
 Real-World Deployment: The system was implemented in a flood-prone area and
compared with traditional monitoring methods, demonstrating improved accuracy and
response time.

7. Limitations and Mitigations

 Sensor Accuracy: Environmental factors like extreme weather or obstructions may

impact sensor performance. Regular calibration is recommended to maintain accuracy.
 Data Transmission: The ESP-01 Wi-Fi module has range limitations in remote areas.
Future iterations may consider alternatives like LoRa for extended coverage.
 Battery Life: Continuous monitoring in remote areas may require solar-powered systems
or energy-efficient modules to reduce maintenance.
Results and Analysis

In this project, we successfully developed a system that monitors flood risk levels, water levels in
dams, and rainfall intensity. The ACS712 current sensor accurately measured the current produced
by the turbine, providing real-time data displayed on an OLED screen. The Kodular app presented
flood risk and water level data for user-friendly analysis.

The OpenWeatherMap API provided real-time rainfall data, which was used to assess flood risks
in specific areas. The ultrasonic sensor measured the flood risk levels by detecting the distance
between the sensor and the floodwaters, while the water level sensor monitored dam water levels
to detect any potential risks.

The LED indicators (yellow, orange, red) provided clear visual alerts regarding water levels,
making it easy to assess the situation at a glance. The system offered immediate visual alerts and
data updates to enable timely action in flood-prone areas.

Overall, the system successfully demonstrated the ability to:

 Monitor and display flood risk levels and water levels in dams.
 Integrate real-time weather data (rainfall intensity) into the flood risk assessment.
 Provide visual alerts using LEDs and a mobile app interface for quick decision-making.
Real-Life Applications

This flood and water risk monitoring system has several real-world applications, particularly in
regions prone to flooding and areas with dams. Some of the key applications include:

1. Flood-prone Areas: The system can be implemented in communities and cities vulnerable
to flooding, providing early warnings based on rainfall intensity and rising water levels.
This can help local authorities take preventive measures, such as evacuations, and avoid
damage to property and loss of life.
2. Dam Management: Dams often require constant monitoring to ensure their structural
integrity and to prevent overflow. Our system, with sensors to monitor water levels, can be
used by authorities to ensure the safety of dams, alerting them to any risk of water overflow
or dam failure. It also helps manage water resources effectively.
3. Agriculture and Irrigation: In flood-prone agricultural regions, this system can help
farmers monitor rainfall and water levels, preventing crop damage due to flooding and
allowing for better irrigation management.
4. Urban Planning and Infrastructure: This system can be integrated into smart cities to
enhance flood prevention systems, especially in low-lying urban areas. The data collected
can be used to plan drainage systems and improve flood control measures.
5. Environmental Protection: The system can also contribute to environmental conservation
by monitoring river and reservoir health, providing insights into pollution levels, and
offering early alerts for potential flooding that could harm natural habitats.

In conclusion, the flood risk and water level monitoring system has broad applicability in urban
planning, disaster management, and environmental conservation, contributing to better resource
management and safety in vulnerable regions.
Discussion

The flood risk and water level monitoring system developed in this project successfully integrates
various sensors, including the ACS712 current sensor, ultrasonic sensor, and water level sensor,
to provide accurate real-time data. The integration of OpenWeatherMap API for rainfall data adds
an extra layer of precision, making the system capable of evaluating flood risks and water levels
both in local areas and dams.

One of the key advantages of the system is its ability to provide early warnings, helping
communities take proactive measures to prevent flood-related damage. The use of LED indicators
and an app interface allows for easy visualization of flood risks and water levels, making the
system user-friendly and accessible.

However, the project did face several challenges. The accuracy of the ultrasonic sensor and water
level sensor in extreme conditions, such as rapid changes in water levels, is an area for
improvement. The sensitivity of the ACS712 30A current sensor to detect very low currents may
also need further optimization to ensure precise readings in low-flow conditions. Additionally,
while the OpenWeatherMap API provides reliable rainfall data, it depends on external sources,
which may sometimes have slight delays or inaccuracies, impacting real-time decision-making.

Future improvements could include enhancing the accuracy of sensors for more extreme weather
conditions and incorporating machine learning algorithms to predict flood risks based on historical
data. Adding features like GPS tracking for location-based risk analysis could also improve the
system’s functionality.
Conclusion

In this project, we successfully developed a flood risk and water level monitoring system using
ACS712 current sensor, ultrasonic sensor, water level sensor, and OpenWeatherMap API for real-
time rainfall data. The system accurately monitors flood risks and water levels, providing timely
information for early warning in flood-prone areas and effective dam management. The integration
of LED indicators and a Kodular app ensures clear visual and mobile alerts, making it user-
friendly.

While the system demonstrates strong functionality, some areas can be improved, such as
enhancing the sensor accuracy for extreme conditions and integrating predictive features for more
proactive risk management. The project also showcases the potential for IoT and sensor
technologies to address real-time environmental monitoring challenges. In the future,
incorporating more advanced features, such as machine learning or GPS integration, could further
improve the system’s capabilities for disaster management and resource planning.
References
1. OpenWeatherMap API Documentation.

2. Firebase Documentation.

3. Arduino Uno Official Website.

4. ESP8266 Wi-Fi Module Specifications.

5. Rain Sensor Data Sheet.

6. Kodular Development Platform.