Tethys Dash: An Open-Source Low-code Platform for Hydrologic Visualization and Integrated Decision Support

Abstract

Three-column flow diagram. Five hydrologic data sources feed the Tethys Dash platform, built from plugin architecture, state-driven UI and multi-panel layout components, which lead to seven listed outcomes and two case study panels. Effective water resources management requires tools that integrate hydrologic data, model outputs, and forecasts into actionable decision-making environments. Although numerous web-based platforms support data sharing and visualization, many require substantial programming expertise, limiting adoption by domain scientists. This paper introduces Tethys Dash, an open-source, low-code platform built on the Tethys Platform for creating interactive hydrologic dashboards. The system employs a plugin-based architecture using Python's Intake package, state-driven React components, and a grid-based layout engine to support simultaneous visualization of spatial, temporal, and analytical data without front-end coding. Integration with external services – including HydroShare, GeoServer, THREDDS, and the National Water Prediction Service API – provides dynamic data connectivity. Two case studies, an RFC Max Forecast dashboard and a Great Lakes Water Levels dashboard, demonstrate the platform's support for real-time situational awareness and retrospective analysis. Results indicate that Tethys Dash reduces front-end development effort while providing extensibility and operational relevance for water resources applications.