A digital twin for the Ogre river
About this good practice
The Ogre River in Latvia has been the focus of a significant project involving the creation of a digital twin - digital model of an actual real-world process that represents over 20 km of the river to provide simulation and monitoring. This system that enables more accurate flood prediction and water management, and is particularly important for management of the impacts of climate change and urbanization on local water systems. This initiative, part of the NOAH (Natural disaster forecasting) project, aims to provide real-time monitoring and predictive capabilities, allowing for timely flood alerts within a 24-hour forecast window, and as a last resort, when the water level reaches a critical point, the platform sends an email notification to the responsible bodies, allowing them to alert individuals whose property is at risk. The digital twin incorporates advanced technologies, including 3D mapping and hydrological data analysis, enabling stakeholders to visualize changes in water levels and assess the risks associated with flooding.
Expert opinion
Resources needed
A multidisciplinary team managed by Riga Technical University were involved (4 persons + 2 from Ogre Municipality). Costs including building design documentation, supervision, construction, construction supervision and creation of 3D model are 46 600 EUR (+ VAT). Implementation took 3 years.
Evidence of success
This first example of a municipality in Latvia to implement such modern and hi-accurate water level monitoring system and real-time tracking of conditions. It eliminates redundancy and enhances readability and represents a significant advancement in using tech for environmental monitoring and flood management. The benefits are particularly significant during floods - at least once a year, mainly in spring when the ice melts and the blizzards come.
Potential for learning or transfer
This solution has a high transferability potential. It also serves as a model for future similar projects across Latvia, leveraging data from around 80 hydrological observation stations to improve accuracy. There are a range of lessons and subsequent benefits from this practice that would be of interest to other regions. The innovation provides solutions to minimise the impacts of flooding, improve water quality and environmental resilience and provides asocial cost saving.
Real-time monitoring website: https://noahogre.rtu.lv/index.html