The Centre is exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the prediction of flash floods and sudden flooding, with the aim of providing warnings weeks before a potential disaster.
According to government sources, work has begun to assess whether flash floods and flood events can be forecast at least four weeks in advance. The Central Water Commission (CWC), under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, is involved in the initiative as authorities seek to strengthen India’s disaster preparedness.
The move follows the devastating flash floods in Nepal, which have renewed concerns over the vulnerability of Himalayan regions to glacier-related disasters. Recent events have highlighted the need for stronger monitoring, data sharing and early-warning systems across the mountain belt.
Experts fear that similar disasters could affect Himalayan and foothill regions across India, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, West Bengal and the northeastern states. Sikkim, in particular, has identified several high-risk glacial lakes and is working with central agencies on mitigation and early-warning measures.
The CWC already operates a flood forecasting system that provides advisories and forecasts, but the government is now looking to enhance predictive capabilities using AI, satellite observations and other advanced technologies.
AI-based forecasting could help authorities analyse large volumes of rainfall, river, glacier and terrain data more rapidly and identify patterns linked to extreme events. However, forecasting flash floods several weeks ahead remains technically challenging because such disasters can develop rapidly and depend on highly localised weather and geological conditions.
The proposed expansion of AI-based forecasting is therefore aimed at improving preparedness, evacuation planning and protection of vulnerable communities across India’s Himalayan region.
