STATE POLYTECHNIC OF JEMBER STUDENTS DEVELOP IOT-BASED FLOOD DETECTION SYSTEM FOR EARLY WARNING

Five students from the Control Computer Engineering Program (TKK) at the State Polytechnic of Jember (Polije) have developed an innovative technology aimed at helping communities respond proactively to the threat of flooding. Their invention is a flood detection device based on the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor, integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) functionality to provide automatic, real-time early warnings.

The group, who call themselves Team B5, includes Arya Wildan Ibrahim, Setia Hoga Alfinda, Anang Afrian Widodo, Zidan Nabil Rahmadani, and Muhammad Aries Maulana. They designed the system using a WeMos D1 Mini (ESP8266) microcontroller as its central unit. The ultrasonic sensor measures water levels, and the collected data is transmitted via Wi-Fi to an online monitoring dashboard. The device is also equipped with LED indicators and a buzzer to provide on-site visual and audible alerts.

“Our goal is to minimize the impact of flood disasters through a fast and accurate early warning system,” said Arya Wildan Ibrahim, the team leader.

Arya also expressed his hope that their device could be implemented in various flood-prone areas to boost public readiness and responsiveness.

“We hope this device can be used in multiple high-risk regions so that residents can react swiftly and evacuate earlier,” he added.

The system is engineered to periodically monitor water levels and assess flood risk based on preset thresholds. When rising water levels reach dangerous limits, the system automatically triggers a red LED and activates a buzzer to alert the surrounding area. This cycle runs continuously to ensure real-time monitoring.

This innovation goes beyond technical functionality, it also raises awareness about the importance of disaster preparedness. Moreover, the system supports quick decision-making for local authorities and emergency responders. With its low production cost and scalable design, this tool holds strong potential for deployment in flood-vulnerable regions throughout Indonesia. (rda)