Artificial neural network-based modeling of snow properties using field data and hyperspectral imagery

This study attempts to model snow wetness and snow density of Himalayan snow cover using a combination of Hyperspectral image processing and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Initially, a total of 300 spectral signature measurements, synchronized with snow wetness and snow density, were collected in the field. The spectral reflectance of snow was then modeled as a function of snow properties using ANN. Four snow wetness and three snow density models were developed. A strong correlation was observed in near-infrared and shortwave-infrared region. The correlation analysis of ANN modeled snow density and snow wetness showed a strong linear relationship with field-based data values ranging from 0.87–0.90 and 0.88–0.91, respectively. Our results indicate that an Artificial Intelligence (AI) approach, using a combination of Hyperspectral image processing and ANN, can be efficiently used to predict snow properties (wetness and density) in the Himalayan region.

Recommendations for resource managers

• Snow properties, such as snow wetness and snow density are mainly investigated through field-based survey but rugged terrains, difficult weather conditions, and logistics management issues establish remote sensing as an efficient alternative to monitor snow properties, especially in the mountain environment.

• Although Hyperspectral remote sensing is a powerful tool to conduct the quantitative analysis of the physical properties of snow, only a few studies have used hyperspectral data for the estimation of snow density and wetness in the Himalayan region. This could be because of the lack of synchronized snow properties data with field-based spectral acquisitions.

• In combination with Hyperspectral image processing, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) can be a useful tool for effective snow modeling because of its ability to capture and represent complex input-output relationships.

• Further research into understanding the applicability of neural networks to determine snow properties is required to obtain results from large snow cover areas of the Himalayan region.