Satellite Images of West Attica Flood Help Government Response
- European Space Imaging
- 28 November, 2017
A flood west of Athens, Greece, was caused by heavy rain on November 15-16, and has killed 22 people.
The cities of Mandra, Elefsina, and Nea Peramos were most affected with 1,184 buildings suffering damage requiring significant government compensation.
European Space Imaging captured 30 cm resolution images of the area using the WorldView-4 satellite on November 21. The images clearly show the damage wrought by the torrents of water and mud, and the path the water took as it flowed down the sides of the mountains and into gullies.
“The satellite images were made immediately available to the Space Applications and Remote Sensing Institute of National Observatory of Athens for the purpose of planning and maintaining situational awareness of the event in collaboration with first responders and government agencies,” said Vana Giavi, Managing Director of TotalView, European Space Imaging’s partner in Greece.
It has been reported that inappropriate urban development may have been a major contributing factor to the event’s severity, as natural floodways have been blocked by unlicensed construction.
“The very high resolution satellite imagery will be an invaluable tool for the Greek government to detect the presence of illegal buildings, and to plan future flood-prevention infrastructure,” said Adrian Zevenbergen, Managing Director of European Space Imaging.
Related Stories
Enhancing Critical Applications With A Combined Optical and SAR Approach
For the first time in history, users can schedule synchronised collections of 25 cm SAR and 30 cm Near Real-Time optical imagery to mitigate weather and gain deeper insights of events unfolding on the ground. This is especially valuable for Emergency Response, GEOINT and other applications.
18 European Landmarks in Satellite Images
Satellite sensors captured unique architecture, breathtaking nature and centuries of history. Explore the Colloseum, La Sagrada Familia, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and other landmarks.
Understanding ONA in Satellite Imagery: What is Off Nadir Angle and What Is It Used For?
Off Nadir Angle (ONA) plays a crucial role in the quality of optical satellite imagery. It influences its resolution and clarity, decides the visibility of features, and makes it easier or harder to identify objects. Moreover, ONA is used to create stereo imagery and 3D models of the Earth’s surface. Read on to learn more.
Sun Glint Can Ruin Satellite Imagery. How Do We Avoid It?
Sun glint occurs when sunlight reflects off water or another reflective surface at the satellite sensor, creating a bright glare in the image. That can make it impossible to extract useful information from satellite imagery. What do we do to minimise its impact?