Automation of the TRCA’s Flood Risk Analysis Network (FRANk)

The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) use FRANk (Flood Risk Analysis Network), as a post storm decision making tool. This tool uses stream and rain gauge data to aid in managing and maintaining erosion control structures that are impacted by flooding events. However, FRANk has limitations, including a time-consuming rain gauge data collection process, and it is currently unable to adequately identify which erosion control structures should be prioritized for inspection and maintenance in a cost effective and timely manner. This three-step project will address these issues by (1) automating the extraction of stream and rain gauge data from the variety of websites that host these datasets, (2) use the automated rain gauge data collection to build suitability maps which show the locations in the TRCA’s jurisdiction that have a heightened likelihood of flooding during rain events, and (3) use the suitability maps to build predictive models which will simulate and predict the extent of future flooding events, focusing on the locations where erosion control structures are situated.

Faculty Supervisor:

Eric Vaz

Student:

Partner:

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (Vaughan, ON)

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services; Public administration

University:

Toronto Metropolitan University

Program: