The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) began developing tools powered by artificial intelligence to create realistic satellite images of possible flooding.
“The idea is that one day we can use these tools before a hurricane to offer the public an additional level of visualization,” said Björn Lütjens, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences at MIT.
The experimental application would use a generative AI model, combined with physics and fluid simulation tools to create realistic visualizations that predict what certain areas could look like in the event of a flood.
The system will be flexible enough to simulate different situations, depending on the severity of the climatological parameters introduced.
“In an emergency, one of the biggest challenges is encouraging people to evacuate when they are in danger,” Lütjens explained. “We hope that the images generated with these tools serve as visualization to encourage people to act in these types of situations.”
The researcher highlighted the importance of developing an accurate tool that does not contain “hallucinations” that could confuse researchers and the public.
“Can AI-altered image visualizations, which are a little more tangible and emotionally engaging than a color-coded map of reds, yellows and blues, be worthy of the same level of trust?” Lütjens asks.
This is a significant example of how AI technology can contribute to the management of the climate crisis, by not only helping to simulate possible situations, but will also serve as tools during active emergencies.
Via: Space.com
