Satellite detected water extents in Bolikhamzai Province, Lao PDR as of 18 September 2024

✦ DISCOVERED BY ORIONAIUnited Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT)WaterLao People S Democratic Republic
Lao People S Democratic Republic

About this dataset

**UNOSAT code: FL20240913LAO** This map illustrates the floods detected using Sentinel-1 images acquired on 18 September 2024 at 06:00 local time in Bolikhamzai Province. Within the analysed area of approximately 16,000 km², about 270 km² of land appears to be affected by floodwaters. The extent of the flooding has increased by approximately 230 km² since the previous observation on 6 September 2024. Based on WorldPop spatial demographic data, an estimated 15,500 people are currently exposed to or residing near the flooded areas. Please note that this is a preliminary analysis and has not been validated in the field. We welcome any ground feedback that can be provided to the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT).

Documentation

UNOSAT datasets and maps are produced using a variety of methods. In general, analysts closely review satellite imagery, often comparing two or more images together, and determine notable changes between the images. For damage assessments, refugee or IDP assessments, and similar analyses, these changes are then manually documented in the vector data by the analyst. For flood extractions, landcover mapping and similar analyses, a variety of automated remote sensing techniques are used to extract the relevant information which is then reviewed and revised as necessary by the analyst. In all cases, resulting data is then loaded into a standardized UNOSAT geodatabase and exported asshapefiles for dissemination. This is a preliminary assessment and has not yet been validated in the field. It is important to consider the characteristics of the source imagery used in the analyses when interpreting results. For damage assessments it should be noted that only significant damage to the structural integrity of the buildings analyzed can be seen in imagery, while minor damage such as cracks or holes may not be visible at all. For flood extractions using radar data it is important to note that urban areas and highly vegetated areas may mask the flood signature and result in underestimation of flood waters. Users with specific questions or concerns should contact unosat@unitar.org to seek clarification.

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