Florida Atlantic University and its partners developed Flooding Explorer: Fort Lauderdale, an immersive virtual reality experience that shows how king tides, heavy rainfall, storms and sea level rise can affect coastal and inland communities. It is designed to support education, research and resilience planning for residents, students, decision makers and visitors. Serena Hoermann of FAU's Center for Urban and Environmental Solutions spearheaded the project.
How it works
Users explore a 3D model of Fort Lauderdale and see potential flooding impacts on homes, businesses, historic landmarks and infrastructure under different scenarios, including 3, 4 and 5 feet of sea level rise. The simulation is anchored at the historic Bonnet House Museum and Gardens. Users navigate the city, view aerial perspectives and adjust a slider to compare scenarios involving high tides, heavy rainfall, storms and future sea level rise. The experience also highlights solutions to reduce flood risks, including improved drainage, pumping stations, elevated seawalls, wetland restoration and green infrastructure.
Access and partners
The experience is available in English and Spanish, includes closed captions, and has a web-based version that extends its reach beyond VR headset users. The project brings together FAU, Virtual Planet Technologies, the Florida Division of Emergency Management, FEMA, Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, and the Museum of Discovery and Science. Juliano Calil, founder of Virtual Planet Technologies, is among the collaborators. Funding came from the Florida Division of Emergency Management and FEMA.
The project was announced by FAU on Oct. 27, and local media coverage repeated the announcement.
