A method that includes transmitting coded waveforms simultaneously on multiple elements for several frames, constructing a first multi-input, single output (MISO) system from the codes to model transmit-receive paths, solving system and RF data observation by linear model theory, giving an IR set for the medium, and applying the estimates to a secondary MISO system, constructed by analogy to the first, but with pulses convenient for beamforming in the form of a focused set of single-cycle pulses for ideal focused reconstruction.

Aspects of the present disclosure describe snow/water level detection using distributed fiber optic sensing/distributed acoustic sensing (DFOS/DAS) and an integrated ultrasonic device that advantageously operates over existing optical telecommunications facilities carrying live telecommunications trafficor optical facilities deployed specifically for such detection. DFOS/DAS monitoring of snow/water level advantageously monitors large areas with high sensitivity while exhibiting robustness to changing environmental conditions and employs a remote (utility pole or other mounting) mounted ultrasonic sensor/transducer that provides snow/water level data in real-time as a coded vibrational signal.