The Role of Google Earth Engine in Flood Disaster Management: A Review of Capabilities and Challenges

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive overview of flood mapping using Google Earth Engine (GEE), emphasizing its significance in disaster management and mitigation. Flood mapping is crucial for understanding risks and preparing for flood events, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. GEE's advanced capabilities in processing and analyzing vast datasets of satellite imagery offer a potent tool for rapid and accurate flood mapping. Studies reviewed demonstrate GEE's application in various contexts, highlighting its effectiveness in generating timely and precise flood maps using methodologies like image processing techniques, machine learning algorithms, and hydrological modeling. Challenges such as technical complexity and data availability are noted, alongside the potential for future advancements integrating AI and big data analytics to enhance flood risk management strategies. The paper underscores GEE's role in advancing flood mapping efforts, contributing to better preparedness and response to flood disasters worldwide.