Abstract: A method for quantifying the extent and recurrence of a predetermined natural event, such as a flooding event, in a geographical area, in particular in spite of the absence of reliable data from sensors on the ground where the natural event develops. The method relies on remote sensing data, such as satellite imagery, and data processing, and reaps the benefits of computational models based on accurate remote sensing of the area under consideration.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of identifying at least one type of surface in a digital image, comprising the steps of: (a) dividing (4) the image (2) in sub-images of the same size; (b) analyzing (6) the sub-images for identifying at least one type of surface; (c) sub-dividing (10) into sub-images each of the sub-images (8) of the preceding step where at least one type of surface is not identified; (d) analyzing (6) the sub-images of step (c) for identifying at least one type of surface; and (e) iterating steps (c) and (d). This is a hierarchical split based approach (HSBA) that can be used for detecting water zones in a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) image.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of identifying at least one type of surface in a digital image, comprising the steps of: (a) dividing (4) the image (2) in sub-images of the same size; (b) analysing (6) the sub-images for identifying at least one type of surface; (c) sub-dividing (10) into sub-images each of the sub-images (8) of the preceding step where at least one type of surface is not identified; (d) analysing (6) the sub-images of step (c) for identifying at least one type of surface; and (e) iterating steps (c) and (d). This is a hierarchical split based approach (HSBA) that can be used for detecting water zones in a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) image.