Satellite Rapid Mapping of Flood Events in Switzerland

Satellite remote sensing has experienced tremendous development in recent years. Possibilities in earth observation have rapidly improved in terms of spatial and temporal data acquisition. A spatial resolution in the sub-meter area and daily situation updates from numerous sensors offer new possibilities for disaster management. Particularly in case of a large scale flood event satellite rapid mapping has repeatedly proven its effectiveness. The last application in Switzerland dates back to the flood event of 2005. Furthermore a lack of end-user studies on the cantonal level was asserted. An assessment of the current potential of satellite rapid mapping was therefore demanded.