Harnessing artificial intelligence to transform flood and coastal risk management
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept – it’s a present-day enabler of smarter, faster, and more resilient flood and coastal risk management (FCRM). At JBA, we’re proud to be leading a growing movement with our clients, embracing AI to revolutionise how we design, maintain, and manage infrastructure in the face of climate change and increasing flood risk.
Why AI matters in flood resilience
AI offers a powerful toolkit for tackling inefficiencies and unlocking productivity across flood resilience. From predictive modelling and automated inspections to intelligent forecasting and generative design, AI is helping us move beyond traditional approaches and into a data-driven future.
At its core, AI is a powerful tool for learning from data, identifying patterns, and supporting decision-making. From large language models informing risk assessment to neural networks forecasting river levels, AI is already transforming how our industry operates. But it comes with challenges. At JBA, we are committed to using AI responsibly and ethically wherever and however it supports our work.
Real-world applications driving impact
Across our sector, we're seeing tangible examples of AI in action:
- AI predictor technology for river levels: Our work on the River Doe Lea demonstrates how Long Short Term Memory neural networks can outperform traditional models, reducing false alarms and enabling safer, more efficient in-channel engineering.
- AI image segmentation for asset monitoring: The FAIR FCRIP project uses AI to automatically detect debris screen blockages from CCTV footage, achieving over 95% accuracy and reducing manual inspections.
- AI communicators for construction risk assessments: AI-powered chatbots trained on health and safety data are helping our teams produce more informed risk assessments, incorporating lessons learned from across the industry, making our people safer.
- AI optimisers for virtual reality training: platforms like VolkerWorld, developed by Volker Fitzpatrick, are using AI-driven simulations to upskill less experienced colleagues, allowing them to experience complex site scenarios and make informed decisions in a safe environment.
Looking ahead: opportunities and collaboration
As we continue to explore AI's potential, collaboration across our sector is essential. Our industry workshops and feedback sessions have highlighted a shared enthusiasm for AI's role in overcoming inefficiencies and driving innovation in enhancing flood resilience.
From automating routine tasks to enhancing scenario analysis, the opportunities are vast and growing. At JBA, we're committed to staying at the forefront of this transformation, working with our partners to deliver resilient, data-driven solutions for communities across the UK and internationally.
Click here to visit our Innovation collection to view all of our work in AI and innovation.
