# A Real-Time Water Level and Discharge Monitoring Station: A Case Study of the Sakarya River
###### Abstract
This connectivity is critical for maintaining up-to-date flood maps and predicting potential flood zones based on real-time data [13; 19; 20]. By continuously monitoring changes in water levels, IoT sensors enable immediate response to sudden water level increases. These systems provide substantial advantages in disaster preparedness and environmental sustainability [12; 13; 14; 15; 16; 21]. Arduino, an open-source electronic platform, is widely used in developing economical and customizable flood monitoring systems [22]. Arduino-based systems can interface with various sensors to measure water levels, flow rates, and other environmental parameters [15]. These systems are both cost-effective and highly adaptable, making them suitable for deployment in diverse geographical and socio-economic conditions. For example, an Arduino combined with a GSM module can transmit data to remote servers, allowing authorities to monitor flood conditions in real time [23; 24]. The implementation of such technologies shows significant promise in enhancing communities' resilience to flood risks. By leveraging sensor data and advanced analytics, flood management systems can provide accurate predictions and timely warnings, thereby reducing the impact of floods on lives and infrastructure [12; 14; 20]. Furthermore, research on water management and flood warning systems continuously improves the effectiveness and accuracy of sensor technologies [16; 20; 23; 25; 26; 27; 28; 29]. Real-time monitoring of rivers is critically important for water resource management, disaster preparedness, and environmental sustainability. This study addresses the design and implementation of a real-time river monitoring station installed on the Orencik Bridge over the Sakarya River. The system continuously monitors water levels and transmits data, with the accuracy and reliability of the collected data being validated against precipitation data and data from a nearby hydroelectric power plant. The increase or decrease in precipitation amounts was directly correlated with the river water level measurements and the calculated flow values, and these relationships were thoroughly analyzed. This process confirmed the reliability and accuracy of the system. The developed real-time river monitoring station allows for the continuous monitoring of water level changes in the Sakarya River, enabling the early detection and prevention of flood risks. Such systems offer significant advantages in water resource management, natural disaster preparedness, and environmental sustainability. This study established a river monitoring station capable of measuring flow and water levels accurately and comprehensively, at desired intervals, using ultrasonic distance sensors without human intervention at bridge sections. Thus, reliable flow calculations can be made for various projects planned on the river. Furthermore, in this system, if the level measured by the ultrasonic distance sensor reaches the critical level determined at the bridge sections, warning and information messages are sent to the relevant authorities, creating an early warning system against possible floods. In this way, the aim is to minimize potential loss of life and property. This study proposes an innovative approach to real-time river monitoring systems by integrating energy-independent operation with IoT-based communication infrastructure. Utilizing solar power and GSM-based data transmission, the system ensures uninterrupted monitoring and real-time data sharing, particularly in regions with limited energy infrastructure. Additionally, the system's early warning capabilities enhance its effectiveness in critical applications such as flood risk management and water resource monitoring. By addressing the limitations of existing methods, the developed system demonstrates robust applicability in field conditions and offers a practical contribution to advancing environmental monitoring technologies.