ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Before Hurricane Milton’s landfall, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) deployed eight wave sensors between Naples and Crystal River and installed one rapid-deployment gauge on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge to measure the coastal waves caused by the storm.
According to USGS, this specialized equipment is a stream gauge designed to measure and transmit real-time water level data in emergencies. Decision-makers and emergency managers can use the data to monitor water levels as they work to save lives and property.
Recommended Videos
Hurricane Milton brought a life-threatening storm surge and damaging winds to portions of Florida, according to the National Hurricane Center.
“These wave sensors will measure water levels and give insight on wave heights and frequency as well as storm tide. Storm tides are the most dangerous natural hazards unleashed by hurricanes. They can destroy homes and businesses; wipe out roads, bridges, water and sewer systems; and profoundly alter coastal landscapes,” USGS said.
Hurricane Milton hit Florida as a major Category 3, leaving a trail of destruction. It brought 10 to 15 feet of storm surges and EF3 tornadoes across portions of Florida.
What can these sensors do?
The USGS placed the sensors in several different areas along the Florida West Coast before Hurricane Milton arrived on Wednesday, Oct. 9.
The sensors retrieve and analyze the collected data. In exchange, the information is gathered and used to fine-tune future storm surge and coastal change forecasts, help identify areas hit the hardest by storm surges, and guide emergency responders and local officials with recovery efforts.
Plus, the data will help flood insurance companies and building codes to improve structural designs.
How are they built?
The wave sensors are vented aluminum pipes about a foot long and a few inches wide. These pipes will be placed on bridges, piers, and other structures likely to survive the storm.
For more information on the sensor deployment and rapid deployment, gauge will be available on the USGS Flood Event Viewer.