Blog - Ott

Met Tech World Expo 2025 Now in Video!

Blog Team — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Explore our exclusive video library from the Meteorological Technology World Expo 2025 – packed with expert insights, innovative technologies, and practical applications shaping the future of environmental monitoring. Dive into inspiring sessions on climate research, sustainable monitoring, and next-generation sensor solutions.

Why It Matters:

MTWE 2025 brought together global experts, researchers, and innovators to tackle the challenges of climate resilience, data standardization, and sustainable monitoring. From high-altitude expeditions to next-generation sensor technology, these sessions deliver actionable insights for professionals in meteorology, hydrology, and climate science.

Here’s what you’ll find on our video hub:

Climbing for Climate: Sustainable Monitoring in Extreme Environments

A global panel spotlighting Project Wayra on Aconcagua, featuring experts from WMO, King’s College London, and Meteo France. Learn how cryospheric data collection is evolving to become FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable).

This is followed by a presentation at our booth by Dr. Tom Matthews, offering an in-depth look at the installation process and the strategic importance of high-altitude measurement sites.

Winds of Transformation: The Circular Future of Meteorology

Adrian Crawford explores how sustainability, circular design, and AI are reshaping product development and manufacturing in our industry.

Lufft WS Family Update: Compact Weather Sensors with BigSystem Performance

Cody Beedlow presents the next generation of the proven Lufft All-in-One weather sensors. The new WS family delivers multi-sensor precision with BigSystem performance – including WMO-compliant wind measurement, SYNOP support, and enhanced diagnostic features.

OTT Parsivel² & OTT Pluvio² L

Katja Weber explains, how the tried-and-tested OTT Pluvio² and Parsivel² L – in use of project Wayra – deliver precise precipitation measurements, even in harsh conditions.

OTT FMS Flood Monitoring System

Ephrem Charmois introduces a rapid-deployment, radar-based solution for real-time flood monitoring – because in emergencies, every minute counts.

Ready to dive deeper? Click here to watch the full videos:

ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certification - OTT Blog

Blog Team — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Building Trust Through Excellence: What Our ISO Audit Success Means for You

At OTT HydroMet, quality, safety, and sustainability are more than internal goals – they are promises we make to our customers every day. That’s why we’re proud to share a major milestone: the successful completion of our ISO 9001 surveillance audit and our first ISO 14001 multi-site certification audit – both with zero findings.

“The fact that our Lufft brand has been ISO 9001 certified for 30 years now is a strong testament to our enduring commitment to quality and customer satisfaction,” says Nadia Iannuzzi, Managing Director at OTT HydroMet. “With the addition of ISO 14001, we’re taking the next step: We are proving that we not only meet the highest standards in quality but also take responsibility for a more sustainable future.”

Confidence in Quality: ISO 9001 Multi-Site Certification

OTT HydroMet has been ISO 9001 certified since 1995, starting with our Lufft site in Fellbach. Since 2021, we’ve held a multi-site certification that includes our locations in Fellbach, Sterling, Kempten, and Delft. This long-standing commitment to quality management ensures that our processes are designed to deliver consistent, reliable results across all sites.

The ISO 9001 standard is based on key principles such as:

Customer focus
Leadership
Engagement of people
Process approach
Continuous improvement
Evidence-based decision making
Relationship management

Our certification, audited by NSAI (National Standards Authority of Ireland), confirms that we:

Operate a structured and effective Quality Management System (QMS)
Consistently meet customer and regulatory requirements
Continuously improving our processes and performance

A zero-finding audit means our systems are not only compliant but also robust and proactively managed – reducing risk for our customers and partners. It’s a clear signal that when you work with OTT HydroMet, you’re choosing a partner who delivers quality you can count on.

Commitment to Sustainability: ISO 14001 Multi-Site Certification

This year, OTT HydroMet also successfully passed the multi-site ISO 14001 audit for the first time. This is a major milestone, especially for a company whose mission is to monitor and protect the environment.

ISO 14001 is the leading international standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS). It provides a framework for:

Reducing environmental impact
Complying with environmental laws and regulations
Continuously improving environmental performance

For us, this certification is more than a badge – it’s a proof point that we live our mission:

To provide decision-makers with vital, trusted data through innovative hardware, software, and services – to protect lives, the environment, and infrastructure.

In our industry, credibility and sustainability go hand in hand. With ISO 14001, we demonstrate that:

We actively manage and reduce our environmental footprint
We are committed to continuous improvement in sustainability
Our customers can trust not only in our products and services, but also in our responsibility for a better future

“One example of our commitment to a greener future is that all sites are now running on renewable energy sources,” says Tamara Poessnecker, Global Quality & EHS Director at OTT HydroMet. “We’ve also redesigned the packaging of some products to be recyclable – a small but meaningful step toward reducing our environmental impact.”

This certification reinforces our role as a responsible leader in environmental monitoring—and strengthens the trust our partners and customers place in us every day.

What This Means for You

In today’s business landscape, certifications like ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 aren’t just checkboxes – they’re strategic assets. They show that we’re not only compliant, but also committed to building a resilient, future-ready supply chain that aligns with your values.

Whether you’re a long-time partner or exploring new collaborations, we want you to know:
Your success is our priority.

These certifications are just one way we prove it.

Veralto Sustainability Report

Not only OTT HydroMet, but also Veralto – the corporation behind OTT HydroMet – is contributing to a greener future: Veralto’s 2025 Sustainability Report showcases a powerful commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation. From advancing water quality and resource monitoring to embedding sustainability across its operations, Veralto is helping communities protect what matters most.

With a 54.6% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions targeted by 2033, and 40% of its supply base certified through EcoVadis by the end of 2025, Veralto is taking measurable steps toward a more sustainable and responsible future.

Explore how technology and purpose come together to shape a more resilient world in the sustainability report.

Newsletter – SPOTTLIGHT 12/25 - Ott Blog

Blog Team — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

This is the web version of the Ott HydroMet Newsletter. If you want to receive the email, you can subscribe here by choosing ‘Solutions, Products and News’.

1,000 new weather stations for Austria – Local data for precise forecasts - OTT Blog

Blog Team — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Austria, a pioneering network of 1,000 modern weather stations is being established to set new standards in local weather forecasting. In cooperation with two weather services, the telecommunications provider Drei Austria, together with Metrilog Data Services GmbH and Meteologix AG led by weather expert Jörg Kachelmann, is bringing this technology across the entire country – with the goal of collecting weather data where it is truly needed.

Region Seefeld: A Model Rollout

After a successful proof of concept in Vorarlberg, the rollout began in summer 2025 in the Seefeld region of Tyrol. The high plateau at 1,200 meters, surrounded by five villages, exemplifies how weather conditions can vary greatly within a small area. “In winter, one station recorded snow and cold, while another was dry and warm,” reports Elias Walser, Managing Director of the Seefeld Tourism Association.

The high density of measurement points improves not only current weather data but also forecasting models. Especially in alpine terrain, the onset of precipitation can be pinpointed much more accurately in time and space – a real benefit for the tourism industry and its guests.

Technology That Builds Trust

The weather stations are equipped with high-quality sensors from LUFFT – including models WS600, WS501, and WS100. These sensors reliably measure temperature, precipitation, wind, humidity, and other meteorological parameters. They comply with international standards for professional weather observation, as recommended by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

More Knowledge, Better Decisions

Meteorologist Jörg Kachelmann, one of the project partners, emphasizes: “If you want to forecast locally, you must also measure locally.” The new stations enable highly precise local forecasts through a fine-grained 1×1-kilometer model and intelligent statistical modeling.

Benefits for Tourism, Agriculture, and Safety

The weather data is not only valuable for meteorologists – tourism regions, farmers, and insurance companies benefit directly. Christian Kohl, Head of the Enterprise Division at Drei, sees significant potential: “Tourism urgently needs reliable weather data.”

In the Seefeld region, five new stations are already being installed. Elias Walser welcomes the development: “More data means better forecasts – and that helps both our guests and local planning.”

“Weather influences 20 to 30 percent of guest flows – sometimes even half. More accurate forecasts are therefore crucial,” Walser stresses. Guests can plan activities better, and businesses such as cable cars, hotels, or mountain huts benefit from optimized staffing and resource planning.

The collaboration is based on a clear principle: the tourism region provides suitable locations and electricity, while Drei supplies the weather stations free of charge. Installation is simple: “Plug-and-play – a power socket and a mounting option are all you need.”

Innovation: Weather Data Meets Mobile Network Analytics

A unique feature of Drei Wetter is the optional link between weather data and movement analyses from mobile network data. This allows guest behavior and weather to be correlated – a huge advantage for event planning and targeted visitor management. In addition, local measurements make an important contribution to climate monitoring and provide objective facts in an area often dominated by subjective impressions.

Conclusion: Technology That Makes a Difference

The new weather stations are more than just measuring points – they are a key building block for modern, local weather intelligence. Whether for precise snow warnings, storm forecasts, or event planning: the future of weather forecasting begins right on our doorstep – with reliable LUFFT sensors and a dense measurement network across Austria.

With Drei Wetter, the Seefeld region is being re-mapped meteorologically. Precise local data replaces vague forecasts and creates real added value for guests, businesses, and the entire tourism industry. “I can say with 100 percent certainty: it’s surprising what the data reveals – things you would never have imagined,” concludes Elias Walser.

Telemetry Whitepaper LTE-M vs. 4G - OTT Blog

Blog Team — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

The evolution of cellular technology has brought about various standards and categories; each tailored to specific use cases. Among these, LTE-M (also known as Cat M1) and standard 4G LTE stand out for their unique applications in telemetry and IoT (Internet of Things).

Download the new whitepaper to explore the fundamental differences between LTE-M/Cat M1 and standard 4G LTE, highlighting their respective advantages and application use:

OTT Hydromet Devices Now Compliant with EN 18031-1:2024 Cybersecurity Standard - Ott Blog

Blog Team — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Kempten, July 2025 — As cybersecurity becomes a cornerstone of trust in connected technologies, Ott Hydromet is proud to announce that its connected hydrological and meteorological monitoring devices are now fully compliant with the new EN 18031-1:2024 standard. This milestone ensures our products meet the latest Radio Equipment Directive (RED) cybersecurity requirements, which become mandatory across the EU starting August 1, 2025.

What is EN 18031-1:2024?

EN 18031-1:2024 is the first in a series of harmonized European standards developed to support the Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 under the RED Directive. It defines baseline cybersecurity requirements for all internet-connected radio equipment, including:

– Protection against unauthorized access
– Secure data transmission and storage
– Robust software update mechanisms
– Resilience against known cyber threats

What This Means for Ott Hydromet Devices

Our compliance with EN 18031-1:2024 ensures that Ott Hydromet devices:

– Prevent unauthorized access to measurement data and system controls
– Encrypt communication between field devices and cloud platforms
– Verify the authenticity and integrity of firmware updates to prevent tampering
– Verify all third-party components are free from known vulnerabilities prior to deployment

Why It Matters for Our Users

For hydrologists, meteorologists, environmental agencies, and infrastructure operators, this compliance brings tangible benefits:

– Peace of mind: Your data and systems are protected by industry-leading security protocols.
– Regulatory readiness: Devices are future-proofed for EU market access beyond August 2025.
– Operational continuity: Enhanced protection against cyber disruptions ensures reliable data flow.
– Trust and transparency: Security features are documented, tested, and aligned with European standards.

Built-In Security, No Extra Effort

Ott Hydromet’ s approach to cybersecurity is seamless and user-centric. There’s no need for complex configurations—security is embedded by design, ensuring that users can focus on what matters most: accurate, reliable environmental monitoring.

Kempten, July 30th, 2025

FAQ on Heavy Rain and Flood Monitoring - OTT Blog

ela.jozsef@otthydromet.com (Ela Jozsef) — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 15:44:09 GMT

Flood monitoring is a crucial part of civil protection and urban planning. As extreme weather events become more frequent, it is more important than ever that municipalities, engineering offices and emergency services such as fire departments and disaster control are well informed and prepared. In this blog post, we answer frequently asked questions about flood monitoring to give you a comprehensive understanding.

General questions

What do we understand by flood monitoring?

Flood monitoring refers to the proactive observation of water levels in rivers, lakes and other bodies of water to provide early warning of flood potential. It involves the use of sensors, data transmission, and analysis systems to continuously collect and evaluate data.

Why is flood monitoring important?

Continuous flood monitoring enables municipalities and emergency services to monitor rising water levels in real-time and take appropriate measures to protect life and property. Informed municipal managers and emergency responders can initiate evacuations, mobilize resources, in the event of an incident to mitigate exposure of citizens and property to impending floodwaters.

Later, the data obtained also makes it possible to improve models and adopt resiliency strategies.

Who needs flood monitoring?

Flood monitoring is important for various stakeholders, including:

Mayors and city administrations: To coordinate safety measures and urban planning.

Stormwater Managers

Engineering firms: To develop resilient infrastructure projects and plan flood protection measures.

First Responders: For early preparation and coordination of rescue measures and to make well-informed decisions during a flood event.

Agriculture: For planning harvest times and protecting cultivated areas.

Private companies: For the timely evacuation and protection of stock and machinery.

Construction companies: For the timely evacuation of excavation pits before they are flooded. This protects not only human lives but also expensive machinery and materials.

Technical questions and answers

How to plan a measuring station?

Visit our blog: Guide to Planning a Flood Monitoring Station

What technologies are used for flood monitoring?

Various technologies are available, including:

Sensors: Level gauges, flow meters, cameras and precipitation sensors

Data transmission: Wireless networks, satellite communications and mobile communications

Data analysis: Software solutions for evaluating and visualizing measurement data.

Which sensors are used?

A wide range of sensors can be used, such as level gauges, precipitation sensors, and flow meters, which enable precise data acquisition. The selection of the appropriate sensor depends on the objective of the measurement and the site conditions.

How long do the sensors last and how are they maintained

The service life of sensors varies, but high-quality sensors can operate for at least 5 to 10 years. Regular maintenance is crucial for the accuracy and reliability of data. The type and scope of maintenance depends on the sensor selected and the environmental conditions. However, with good planning and the right choice of measurement technology, the scope of maintenance can be minimized to one or two visits per year.

Precipitation measurement

How do I identify the optimum precipitation sensor for my measuring station?

There is no one “best” precipitation sensor. Each measuring principle has strengths and weaknesses that need to be weighed up when selecting the right sensor for your project.

There are two main points to consider to make the right choice:

What is the intent of my measurement?

Is it important to record the exact amount of precipitation and intensity? This is necessary to provide reliable input for hydrological models. The actual amount of precipitation can also help operators of wastewater treatment plants to control their systems more effectively. After an event, it is often necessary to prove that this precipitation event was in fact exceptionally heavy. In this case, a sensor with the highest possible measurement accuracy should be selected. Weighing systems, such as the OTT Pluvio², generally provide the highest measurement accuracy with high reliability and low maintenance requirements.

If it is more important to record the spatial distribution of a precipitation event , for example to assess the extent of the event across different districts of the city, it can be advantageous to switch to radar sensors. These are smaller and can therefore be installed inconspicuously in the middle of an urban environment. They are also cheaper, so more measuring points can be set up for the same budget. The accuracy of these sensors with regard to the amount of precipitation is worse though than that of weighing systems. However, if the data is to be used as input for an AI-supported forecasting model, for example, the better description of the spatial spread of the event can increase the accuracy of the model, even if the individual measurements are less accurate.

Is it important to know the precipitation type, i.e. to be able to distinguish between drizzle, rain, snow and hail, for example? This distinction is not possible for weighing sensors. Even tipping buckets cannot make this distinction. A radar sensor or a disdrometer (OTT Parsivel, WS100) can be used for this application. The type of precipitation and the size of the drops can provide important information on the runoff process and any erosion that may occur.

What conditions do I have on site?

Is there enough space to install a large weighing sensor? Then this is probably a good solution. If the space conditions do not allow this, you can switch to a smaller radar sensor.

What energy supply options are available on site? Precipitation sensors generally consume a relatively large amount of power compared to other sensors. Therefore, connecting to a mains power supply would always be the best solution. If no mains power is available, a measuring principle should be selected that also works well without heating or at least with minimal heating power. Weighing sensors are a good choice for this. These can also be supplied with suitably dimensioned solar panels.

How accessible is the planned location? This aspect should be considered, especially regarding maintenance. Tipping buckets are a good and inexpensive alternative for measuring precipitation, but they should be cleaned every 4 to 6 weeks to prevent the funnel from clogging. For locations that are far away or difficult to reach, this can quickly create a lot of effort and high running costs. Radar sensors are well suited here, as they do not require regular maintenance. For a site that is passed almost daily, for example at sewage treatment plants, regular maintenance of the tipping bucket is hardly worth mentioning and the connection to mains power is usually easy to manage.

It is easily possible to combine sensors with different measuring principles – and therefore also their strengths – in one measuring network. This gives you the opportunity to choose the right solution for each measuring point.

Why should I measure precipitation even though national weather services provide precipitation data and warnings free of charge?

Weather services often provide municipalities and local authorities with free of charge precipitation data and warnings of extreme precipitation events. This data is collected on a large scale for large areas using radar technology. It provides a very good large-scale overview and is currently the earliest possible warning for a high risk heavy rainfall. It is therefore important to use this data.

Water level measurement

How do I identify the optimum water level sensor for my measuring station?

Visit our blog post: How to Determine the Best Water Level Sensor for Your Site

What needs to be considered when installing radar sensors for level measurement?

Deciding on the installation location

It is crucial to install the sensor in a location that is free from irregularities such as rocks or bridge piers that could affect the water level. The sensor beam should have a clear path to the water surface, free from turbulence, splashes or obstructions.

Mounting recommendations

The sensor should be securely mounted to avoid vertical displacement due to wind or vibration. The antenna must be aligned within 1° of the vertical to prevent measurement errors. Ensure that the sensor is mounted high enough to avoid submersion in high water. Even if radar sensors, such as the OTT RLS 500, are water-proof, measurement stops if submerged.

For installation on bridges, it is advisable to install the sensor near a bridge pier to minimize the effects of temperature fluctuations and traffic loads. Make sure that the sensor is not installed directly in the middle between two piers, as the water level at this point could be influenced by backwater.

Consider the extent to which the passage of the bridge may be blocked by floating debris. If blockages due to floating debris are likely, it is better to install the sensor at some distance from the bridge so that it does not only measure the accumulated floating debris. Alternatively, a pressure sensor can be a good choice for such situations.

What must be observed when installing pressure sensors for level measurement?

The following must be observed when installing pressure sensors such as the OTT PLS 500:

Stability: The sensor must be mounted stably to avoid movement or vibration.

Contamination: Avoid areas with heavy contamination. This also includes sediment deposits. The sensor should be installed in such a way that it is not covered by sediment.

Hydrodynamic influences: Minimize influences from currents or waves.

The OTT PLS 500 can be installed in two ways:

The sensor is fixed in a protective pipe to ensure stable measurements.

The sensor is suspended from the cable and securely fixed.

Important maintenance work includes cleaning the membrane and replacing the desiccant.

Why are ultrasonic sensors not recommended for level measurement?

Ultrasonic sensors are susceptible to environmental influences such as foam, fog or vegetation, which can interfere with the ultrasonic signals. Temperature fluctuations and wind can also affect the accuracy of the measurement. These disruptive factors occur more frequently during heavy precipitation events, meaning that the sensor is at the highest risk of failure when it matters most.

What is a sensible measurement frequency for water level measurement?

A high measurement frequency is crucial for flood monitoring to be able to react to changes in the water level in due time. A sensible measurement frequency is 5 to 15 minutes. This frequency enables the prompt recording of water level fluctuations and the early detection of flood events. Depending on the environmental conditions and risk potential, the measuring frequency can be adjusted to ensure optimum monitoring.

Modern dataloggers make it possible to increase the measurement frequency as soon as a certain threshold is exceeded. This ensures that the station is operated in an energy-saving manner in the “normal state” and that real-time data is available in the event of an incident.

What are flow meters and how do they work?

Flow meters measure the velocity of water flow in rivers and canals. They use methods such as Doppler sensors or electromagnetic induction to provide accurate readings. The water level, information on the flow profile and the flow velocity are then used to calculate the amount of water that is flowing through the measurement cross-section in a specific measurement time.

How accurate are the measurements?

The accuracy of the measurements depends on the quality of the sensors used and the calibration. Modern sensors offer high precision and can measure water levels within a few millimeters. However, the measurement accuracy can only ever be specified for the measurement of the water level and the flow velocity. The accuracy of the flow calculation strongly depends on the local conditions.

Data transmission

What role does data transmission play in flood monitoring?

Data transmission is essential for transmitting measured values in real time. It is usually carried out via wireless networks such as mobile radio or satellite and ensures continuous monitoring. It makes it possible to obtain an overview of all data on the current situation without having to put yourself in danger when accessing the measuring point.

Depending on the importance of the measuring point, the possibility of redundant data transmission should be considered. For example, if the mobile network fails in the event of a disaster, data transmission can continue via satellite. Modern data loggers, such as the OTT netDL, offer this option.

What are the different data transmission options and what are the differences between them?

OTT HydroMet offers various data transmission options for data loggers, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Cellular

Whitepaper LTE-M vs. 4G.

With mobile data transmission, the measurement data is sent to central servers or cloud platforms via the mobile network. There are various standards such as 4G, 5G and LTE-M.

Advantages:

Widespread network coverage in many regions

Available for the majority of data loggers

Easy to set up and maintain

Fast data transmission in real time

LTE-M is particularly suitable for monitoring tasks, as the modems are low-power and data transmission is cost-effective. LTE-M is also widely available.

Data can be sent to a wide variety of servers in different formats. Hosted solutions or self-managed software solutions are possible.

Systems can be parameterized and configured remotely.

Disadvantages:

Dependence on the availability of the mobile network

Possible costs for data transmission

Satellite

Satellite transmission enables communication with dataloggers even in remote and inaccessible areas. It is ideal as a “backup” solution in case other communication channels fail.

Advantages:

Independent of local network infrastructures

Highly reliable, especially in the event of disasters

Free use of Meteosat and GOES (Would this be GOES for the western hemisphere) for public institutions.

Disadvantages:

No fallback solution when using Meteosat or GOES, but parallel operation

Latency times can be disruptive depending on the application

LoRaWAN

Description: LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a wireless transmission technology for the Internet of Things (IoT) that is designed for energy-saving, long-term communication over long distances.

Advantages:

Low energy consumption

No costs for data transmission

Disadvantages:

Limited data transmission rate

Dependence on the availability of a LoRaWAN network

Costs and maintenance for the infrastructure

LAN / DSL

Description: Transmission via LAN (Local Area Network) or DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) uses wired connections to send data from data loggers to central servers or cloud platforms.

Advantages:

High transmission speed

Stable and reliable connection

Independent of wireless networks

Data can be sent to a wide variety of servers in different formats. Hosted solutions or self-managed software solutions are possible

No costs for data transmission

Systems can be parameterized and configured remotely

Disadvantages:

Limited flexibility as a wired infrastructure is required

Installation and maintenance can be more complex

How often can or should the measurement data be transmitted?

In Most level measurement networks, data is transmitted every 15 minutes. However, data transmission has a major impact on power consumption. In addition, the constant availability of data is often not necessary, especially for flood monitoring. Therefore, an adapted approach is recommended: Normally, data is only transmitted every two hours or even less frequently. As soon as a certain threshold value is exceeded, the data logger automatically increases the transmission rate. Modern data loggers support both automatic adjustment of data transmission and remote modification.

How are alarm systems set up and what methods are there?

Alert systems are set up based on critical thresholds. Methods include sirens, SMS notifications and push messages via apps, as well as the integration of data and alarms into the local disaster control network.

Dataloggers usually only provide the data, everything else is done in the control center or central software. Nevertheless, modern data loggers are also able to send alarms, e.g. via SMS, as soon as a limit value is exceeded. Some data loggers also offer the option of activating sirens or similar via switching outputs.

IT security

The installation of a flood monitoring system requires high security standards to guarantee the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of the data collected. These systems must be protected against various threats, including unauthorized access, data manipulation and cyber attacks.

A crucial aspect of IT security is the implementation of secure communication channels. Data transmission between the sensors and the central servers or cloud platforms must be encrypted to prevent eavesdropping attempts and data leaks. Secure authentication and access control are also essential to ensure that only authorized persons and systems can access the data.

OTT HydroMet, offers products that are specially designed to meet the high security requirements of flood monitoring systems. OTT HydroMet’s devices and software solutions feature advanced encryption technologies for data transmission and secure authentication mechanisms. In addition, they are robust against cyber-attacks and offer comprehensive data integrity and availability features.

Another feature of OTT HydroMet products is their integration into existing IT security infrastructure. This enables seamless collaboration with existing security solutions and processes. This ensures end-to-end protection of flood monitoring data, from collection and transmission to analysis and storage.

Data evaluation

How is the data monitored and evaluated?

The collected data is transferred in real time to central servers or cloud platforms, where it is analyzed and evaluated. Dashboards and alarm systems help to monitor critical threshold values and issue warnings.

How quickly can the data be analyzed?

Modern systems enable data to be analyzed almost immediately. Algorithms and software solutions evaluate the information and generate alerts for critical water levels. AI solutions make it possible to determine the most likely course of events from pre-calculated model scenarios, thus avoiding the long calculation times of complex hydrological models that were previously too long for alerts.

What are the advantages of cloud platforms for flood monitoring?

Cloud platforms offer a scalable and secure way to store and analyze data. They enable access to measurement data from anywhere and facilitate collaboration between different stakeholders.

What software solutions are available for data analysis?

There are various software solutions that are specifically tailored to the needs of flood monitoring. They offer functions for data collection, analysis and visualization and support decision-making.

There is currently a wide range of software solutions available, each with a different focus. There is a fundamental difference between hosted software solutions and on-premises solutions. On-premises solutions are local on your own network. This means that the user is also responsible for maintenance and availability. They have the advantage that you have full control and, above all, can implement security measures almost at will. However, you also must invest your own working time and are responsible for the functionality. With hosted software solutions, this part of the work is purchased as a service. The software solution and the necessary hardware are then operated and maintained by a third-party provider, so that you only must take care of the measuring stations and their data transmission. This generally increases reliability and resilience, provided that the provider has the appropriate qualifications and security measures in place.

In some cases, data platforms already exist at local civil protection organizations or for certain federal states or associations. In this case, it makes sense to import these data in order to benefit from the data together with as many interest groups as possible.

Modern measurement systems also make it possible to import the data into several software solutions in parallel.

Practical applications and examples

How is flood monitoring used in practice?

One practical example is the monitoring of river levels in flood-prone areas. By installing water level gauges and continuously monitoring water levels, local authorities can be warned at an early stage and evacuation plans can be activated.

For example, retention areas in public spaces can be evacuated and cordoned off, and tunnels and underground car parks that threaten to fill up can be closed and monitored in good time. And in the event of an incident, operational planning can be based on which routes (bridges and underpasses) are still passable.

What are the challenges of flood monitoring?

The challenges include installing and maintaining the sensors, ensuring reliable data transmission and handling large volumes of data. It requires close collaboration between different stakeholders to overcome these barriers. The biggest challenge often is managing this additional workload with existing resources. However, with today’s technical solutions and service offerings, these challenges are no longer a major hurdle.

Planning a monitoring network can seem overwhelming at first. But with the right partners at your side, it’s not that difficult. At OTT, we have over 150 years of experience in planning monitoring networks and putting together optimal solutions for various hydrological and meteorological tasks. We are happy to support you in the planning process and provide advice.

Are there funding programs for flood monitoring?

There are government and private funding programs for flood monitoring systems that offer funding and advice. As these programs vary depending on the federal state, please check which offers are suitable for you.

How can flood monitoring data be integrated into GIS systems?

Geographic information systems (GIS) enable the spatial analysis and visualization of flood monitoring data. The integration of this data into GIS systems supports the planning and decision-making process for flood protection measures.

How can private households benefit from flood monitoring?

Private households can be warned of flooding at an early stage by flood monitoring systems. This gives them the opportunity to take protective measures and minimize damage.

How can cooperation between different stakeholders in flood monitoring be improved?

Close cooperation and the exchange of information between municipalities, engineering offices, emergency services and research institutions are crucial to the success of flood monitoring. Regular meetings and joint projects can strengthen cooperation. Sharing data from different monitoring networks offers maximum benefit to each of the stakeholders and allows a holistic view of the situation.

What are the most important criteria for selecting a flood monitoring system?

Important criteria are the accuracy and reliability of the sensors, the reliability, scalability and flexibility of the system, the user-friendliness of the software solutions, and the costs for installation and operation.

Solutions from OTT HydroMet

Conclusion

Flood monitoring is an indispensable tool in the fight against natural disasters. By using state-of-the-art technologies and close cooperation between municipalities, engineering offices and emergency services, the risk of flood damage can be significantly reduced. By relying on effective flood monitoring, we not only protect lives and property, but also contribute to the sustainable development of our cities and regions.

For further information and support, please contact OTT HydroMet.

Observe and Thrive From the Top of the World: Science at the Summit - OTT Blog

ela.jozsef@otthydromet.com (Ela Jozsef) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 23:06:44 GMT

In a bold leap for climate science, a team of international scientists has successfully installed weather stations as a groundbreaking scientific initiative aimed at deepening our understanding of high-altitude climate systems. Located on the highest peak in the Americas, this project involved the installation of five advanced weather stations at elevations ranging from 4,267 to 6,949 meters (14,000 to 22,800 feet). These stations are engineered to monitor critical meteorological data such as precipitation amounts, type, and intensity, snow depth, and solar radiation. The insights gathered will deepen our understanding of the hydrological cycle and the role of mountain water towers in sustaining downstream communities.

The expedition was led by climatologist and National Geographic Explorer Baker Perry Ph.D. of the University of Nevada, Reno; Pierre Pitte of the Instituto Argentino de Nivología, Glaciología y Ciencias Ambientales (IANIGLA); and fellow National Geographic Explorer Tom Matthews of King’s College London.

“We have huge gaps in our understanding of just the basic processes that enable the glaciers to exist, and the snow to fall up here”

—Baker Perry Ph.D.
“These weather stations will allow us to really quantify and improve projections into the future for water resource availability, glacier health, and other vital scientific topics.”

Extreme Irradiance Events Confirmed on Aconcagua

One of the most astonishing findings from the project has been the observation of extreme solar irradiance—levels of solar radiation that, at times, exceed what is expected even at the top of Earth’s atmosphere. These “over-irradiance” events are believed to result from complex interactions between snow, ice, and cloud cover. Similar phenomena were first observed on Mount Everest, and their recurrence on Aconcagua confirms that these are not isolated incidents. Understanding these events is crucial for modeling glacier melt and energy balance in high mountain environments, which directly impacts water availability and climate forecasting.

Top of the Earth and Beyond

NASA’s participation in the Aconcagua expedition added a unique scientific dimension. A NASA scientist on the team focused on collecting soil samples and investigating the presence of dry permafrost—an analog for Martian terrain. This research not only enhances our understanding of Earth’s cryosphere but also informs planetary science and future Mars exploration. The collaboration underscores the interdisciplinary value of high-altitude research, bridging climatology, hydrology, and astrobiology.

The Partnership Behind Aconcagua’s Climate Monitoring Success

The success of the Aconcagua weather station project was significantly bolstered by the collaboration between Baker Perry and OTT HydroMet. Dr. Perry’s expertise in high-altitude meteorology, combined with OTT HydroMet’s cutting-edge weather monitoring technology, created a synergy that was instrumental in the project’s achievements. OTT HydroMet provided state-of-the-art equipment—such as the Pluvio²L weighing precipitation gauge and the Parsivel² present weather sensor—that ensured accurate and reliable data collection in the harshest of conditions. This partnership exemplifies how scientific expertise and advanced technology can come together to push the boundaries of climate research.

Learn more about the sensors used in the project:

Guide to Planning a Flood Monitoring Station - OTT Blog

Blog Team — Thu, 01 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The importance of flood monitoring is steadily increasing as heavy rainfall events become more frequent, requiring monitoring even in previously unaffected areas. This development calls for comprehensive and reliable monitoring to respond to flood events in a timely manner and minimize damage. However, the planning of a monitoring station can seem complex and overwhelming. In this blog post, we aim to help you answer the most important questions and provide you with the necessary information to plan and operate an effective flood monitoring station.

What is the goal of the station and what should be measured?

Before you start planning, you should be clear about the goals of your monitoring station:

What should be measured? Do you want to measure water level (gauge), flow, or even capture camera images?

Why is this measurement important? Should the station serve as an early warning system for floods or monitor water levels in rivers and streams? Consider whether the station should also record low water data in case of drought.

Reliability of the station: How crucial is the data, especially during an event? What does it mean for you if the station fails? It may be necessary to plan for redundant sensors and fail-safes.

Where is the best place to measure?

Choosing the right location for your monitoring station is critical for the accuracy and reliability of the data.

Is this location suitable to achieve my goal? Can the necessary measurements be taken here to gain the crucial insights?

Local conditions: Is the location prone to vandalism? Is it easily accessible for maintenance work?

Water movement at this location: Is the water surface relatively calm and free of turbulence? Are there obstacles such as bridge piers or other structures that could affect the measurements? Ensure that the sensor is not submerged in flood situations and that no obstacles distort the measurements.

What solutions are available?

There are various solutions for flood monitoring that can vary depending on your specific requirements and circumstances. These can be divided into three categories:

Simple, fully integrated solutions offer easy and quick installation as well as a reliable and robust design. These solutions usually support only one sensor and are ideal for applications where a simple and efficient setup is required. They are characterized by their user-friendliness and the ability to perform basic flood monitoring tasks without extensive technical knowledge or special training.

If multiple sensors or a camera need to be connected, standard solutions with a small control cabinet are ideal. These solutions are flexible and allow for the integration of various sensors and cameras. They are ideal for applications where more than just one sensor is needed.

Complex stations usually require customized solutions that offer maximum flexibility and control options. These solutions are tailored and can be adapted to the customer’s specific requirements and circumstances. They offer the highest flexibility and future-proofing since individual components can be added or replaced later. Therefore, these stations are ideal for demanding applications where specific requirements need to be met.

How to Determine the Best Water Level Sensor for Your Site

For a detailed article on the subject, find more information here: How to Determine the Best Water Level Sensor for Your Site

Choosing the right sensor depends on various factors:

Measurement parameters: Do you want to measure water level, flow rate, or other parameters?

Mounting options: Where can the sensor be mounted? Are there stable structures such as bridges or other constructions suitable for mounting?

Environmental conditions: Is the location prone to extreme weather conditions or vandalism? Radar sensors should not be submerged during floods, and pressure sensors (in water) should not be damaged by debris during floods.

Hydrological influences: Are there possible backwater effects during floods that could distort the measurements or are the target of the measurement?

What is the available space?

Regarding the first question “What is the goal of the measurement,” the monitoring station should ideally be set up where this goal can be best achieved. It is not effective to choose a monitoring station solely based on the availability of the installation site if it cannot fulfill its objectives there. However, it is often difficult to find a possible monitoring station, especially in urban environments. Ownership issues often make the search even more difficult. Two points can help address these challenges:

Compact design: Systems with a compact design require little space and are therefore ideal for confined or hard-to-reach locations. This makes installation easier and significantly reduces space requirements.

Modular installation: A modular installation allows the components to be placed flexibly and make optimal use of the available space. This means that the individual parts of the monitoring station can be mounted in different locations to utilize the space efficiently while ensuring functionality.

How can I power the station?

Good, forward-looking planning of the power supply is the best way to optimize the station’s reliability and increase its reliability.

Solar energy: Solar panels can provide a sustainable and low-maintenance power supply. The prerequisite, of course, is that the solar panel is always sufficiently illuminated.

Battery operation: Thanks to intelligent, energy-saving control of the measurement technology, monitoring stations can now run for several years on a battery. Measuring battery status and linked warnings allow efficient planning of battery replacements and prevent station failures due to empty batteries.

Grid power: Grid power (in combination with a backup battery) offers the highest reliability and flexibility. Especially in urban environments, there are often opportunities to connect the station to the local power grid. For example, the power supply from streetlights or traffic lights or nearby houses can be used.

How should the data be transmitted?

Data transmission from the logger plays a crucial role in ensuring that the collected measurement data is reliably and promptly forwarded to the appropriate locations. This is particularly important in flood monitoring, as quick and accurate data can be lifesaving. Measurement data is used to issue early warnings, update predictive models, and support decision-making in crisis management.

There are various options for data transmission:

Cellular network: The most commonly used method, as it is flexible and available in most areas.

Satellite communication: Particularly useful in remote areas without cellular coverage.

Radio networks: Suitable for local applications where short transmission distances are required.

Regarding redundancy, it may be useful to combine multiple transmission paths. For example, primary data transmission can take place via the cellular network, while secondary transmission via satellite serves as a backup. This increases reliability and ensures that critical data continues to be transmitted even in case of disruptions.

Where should the data be transmitted?

The collected measurement data can be transmitted and hosted on various servers to be available at all times. Using servers from OTT HydroMet, own servers, or other hosting providers ensures that the data is securely stored and accessible. Appropriate visualization allows an efficient overview of the entire monitoring network. A relevant example is hydras3.net.

Support from OTT HydroMet

OTT HydroMet can assist you in planning your monitoring station and offers various products and solutions to meet all challenges in flood monitoring. From simple, fully integrated solutions to standard solutions and customized solutions – OTT HydroMet has the right technology for your needs.

The OTT FMS

The OTT FMS Flood Monitoring System is a compact and easy-to-install flood monitoring system specifically designed for the needs of municipalities. It offers:

Easy installation and use: Thanks to the integrated solution with radar level sensor, data logger, modem, and power supply, even inexperienced users can easily set it up.

Robust and reliable design: The system is weatherproof and offers a long service life, so you can rely on the data.
Flexibility: The OTT FMS offers flexible solutions to cover all applications. However, this flexibility can also seem complex and intimidating. We want to help you overcome this complexity and take advantage of the flexibility.

Newsletter – SPOTTLIGHT 03/25 - OTT Blog

carla.roman@otthydromet.com (Carla Roman) — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT

This is the web version of the OTT HydroMet Newsletter. If you want to receive the email, you can subscribe here by choosing ‘Solutions, Products and News’.

Dear Reader,

Welcome to SPOTTLIGHT – our bi-monthly environmental newsletter that gives you the latest on the technology, trends, and news related to the environmental monitoring community while also sharing what’s happening globally at OTT HydroMet.  

For this edition, we are excited to share with you:  

Hydrometeorological Trends
2025 Solar PV Market Outlook
How Paris is Mitigating Groundwater flooding
Exciting Global Career Opportunities

In the Field

Hydrometeorological Trends

Amid extreme weather events, accurate information is crucial. Integrating AI, IoT devices, and traditional measurements advances our understanding and management of water resources and responses to extreme events.

2025 Solar PV Forecast

The solar PV industry is growing with new markets boosting renewable energy capacity in 2025. We compiled key PV trends and markets for 2025 and recapped 2024 milestones in a concise infographic.

Managing Groundwater Flooding in Paris

Discover how Paris is tackling groundwater flooding with the installation of 300 remote measurement stations to monitor groundwater levels and prevent ground collapse during flood events.

MQTT(S) Now Available for “Link” Loggers

We are happy to announce the addition of MQTT(S) as an IP communication protocol to the “Link” family of loggers, including XLink 100, XLink 500, and SatLink3-1. This implementation offers enhanced customization and compatibility, ensuring seamless and secure data communication.

Update Now

Industry Events

Anwenderforum 2025 | April 1-2, 2025 | Kempten, Germany
The Anwenderforum returns this year at our site in Kempten featuring industry speakers, product presentations, workshops, and more!

Intersolar EU | May 7 – 9, 2025 | Munich, Germany
Reserve a time to meet with our solar PV expert team at booth B3.374 during Intersolar. Discover the latest advancements in photovoltaic measurement and monitoring and learn about future product launches from Kipp & Zonen! Have fun with our interactive pyranometer light demo, and interact with our customizable solar weather station.

Department Spottlight

Technical Service & Calibration

Did you know we have a team dedicated to post-sales service and support? Now you can leave the most critical instrument repair and maintenance tasks to our certified experts. Ensure your assets and your data are protected with our global calibration services! Calibration at regular intervals proves to you and your investors that your data has been accurate, and is the best way to identify problems early on!

Learn More

Career Opportunities

Global Project Coordinator | Solar | Remote
Reporting to the Senior Manager Global Projects and Sales Solar, this a sales enablement position focused on growing business and driving OTT HydroMet market position in Solar markets globally.

Business Development Manager | Solar, HydroMet | Saudi Arabia/Hybrid
This position is responsible for driving sales for OTT HydroMet with existing and new Channel Partners and target Accounts across the Solar, Hydro and Met segments resulting in incremental growth and profitability.

Blog - Ott

Met Tech World Expo 2025 Now in Video!

Why It Matters:

Here’s what you’ll find on our video hub:

Climbing for Climate: Sustainable Monitoring in Extreme Environments

Winds of Transformation: The Circular Future of Meteorology

Lufft WS Family Update: Compact Weather Sensors with BigSystem Performance

OTT Parsivel² & OTT Pluvio² L

OTT FMS Flood Monitoring System

ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certification - OTT Blog

Building Trust Through Excellence: What Our ISO Audit Success Means for You

Confidence in Quality: ISO 9001 Multi-Site Certification

Commitment to Sustainability: ISO 14001 Multi-Site Certification

What This Means for You

Veralto Sustainability Report

Newsletter – SPOTTLIGHT 12/25 - Ott Blog

1,000 new weather stations for Austria – Local data for precise forecasts - OTT Blog

Region Seefeld: A Model Rollout

Technology That Builds Trust

More Knowledge, Better Decisions

Benefits for Tourism, Agriculture, and Safety

Innovation: Weather Data Meets Mobile Network Analytics

Conclusion: Technology That Makes a Difference

Telemetry Whitepaper LTE-M vs. 4G - OTT Blog

OTT Hydromet Devices Now Compliant with EN 18031-1:2024 Cybersecurity Standard - Ott Blog

FAQ on Heavy Rain and Flood Monitoring - OTT Blog

Table of Contents

General questions

What do we understand by flood monitoring?

Why is flood monitoring important?

Who needs flood monitoring?

Technical questions and answers

How to plan a measuring station?

What technologies are used for flood monitoring?

Which sensors are used?

How long do the sensors last and how are they maintained

Precipitation measurement

How do I identify the optimum precipitation sensor for my measuring station?

What is the intent of my measurement?

What conditions do I have on site?

Why should I measure precipitation even though national weather services provide precipitation data and warnings free of charge?

Water level measurement

How do I identify the optimum water level sensor for my measuring station?

What needs to be considered when installing radar sensors for level measurement?

What must be observed when installing pressure sensors for level measurement?

Why are ultrasonic sensors not recommended for level measurement?

What is a sensible measurement frequency for water level measurement?

What are flow meters and how do they work?

How accurate are the measurements?

Data transmission

What role does data transmission play in flood monitoring?

What are the different data transmission options and what are the differences between them?

How often can or should the measurement data be transmitted?

How are alarm systems set up and what methods are there?

IT security

Data evaluation

How is the data monitored and evaluated?

How quickly can the data be analyzed?

What are the advantages of cloud platforms for flood monitoring?

What software solutions are available for data analysis?

Practical applications and examples

How is flood monitoring used in practice?

What are the challenges of flood monitoring?

Are there funding programs for flood monitoring?

How can flood monitoring data be integrated into GIS systems?

How can private households benefit from flood monitoring?

How can cooperation between different stakeholders in flood monitoring be improved?

What are the most important criteria for selecting a flood monitoring system?

Solutions from OTT HydroMet

Conclusion

Further reading

Observe and Thrive From the Top of the World: Science at the Summit - OTT Blog

Extreme Irradiance Events Confirmed on Aconcagua

Top of the Earth and Beyond

The Partnership Behind Aconcagua’s Climate Monitoring Success

Learn more about the sensors used in the project:

Guide to Planning a Flood Monitoring Station - OTT Blog

What is the goal of the station and what should be measured?

Where is the best place to measure?

What solutions are available?