LSU's near-instant flood predictions could save lives
December 01, 2025
Department of Oceanography & Coastal Sciences Professor George Xue’s hybrid numerical-AI compound flood prediction model can generate a 72-hour flood simulation in four seconds on any laptop. It takes a supercomputer 15 minutes to do the same thing.
LSU's hybrid numerical-AI compound flood prediction model can generate a 72-hour flood simulation in four seconds on any laptop. It takes a supercomputer 15 minutes to do the same thing.
“In a fast-moving storm surge, every second matters. Fifteen minutes could mean the difference between a lifesaving escape from flood waters and being trapped or worse. Cutting forecast generation time to four seconds allows emergency managers to respond almost instantly to rapidly changing flood conditions,” Xue said.
Xue’s hybrid system integrates river and ocean models, and its water-level predictions during hurricanes and other storms are 20-40% more accurate than traditional methods. Details of the model can be found in the journal npj Natural Hazards. The numerical-AI model is also much less expensive than booking supercomputer time, so disaster managers can run thousands upon thousands of simulations without incurring significant computing expenses or requiring access to specialized facilities.
“In a crisis situation, it’s crucial to reduce the risk of errors,” said Xue, who has a joint appointment at the LSU Center for Computation & Technology. “Faster forecasts will enable disaster managers to operate stormwater pumps, gates, and drainage infrastructure, and send rescue teams, boats, and ambulances to the most critical areas in real time.”
Improving hurricane preparedness and emergency response helps reduce flood damage exposure for vulnerable communities and infrastructure. All of which makes for a stronger, more resilient coast, whether along the Gulf or elsewhere.
“Around 40% of the world’s population lives within 100 kilometers of a coastline. Roughly 15% live within 10 kilometers, and that number is increasing rapidly,” Xue said. “The need for quick, accurate flood prediction to protect those people is vital.”
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