Flood Frequency Analysis Using Generalized Extreme Value Distribution and Floodplain Mapping for Hurricane Harvey in Buffalo Bayou

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-31-2018

Publication Title

World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2018

Abstract

Hurricane-induced flooding is a recurring phenomenon causing severe damages to lives and properties in southern coastal states. The magnitude of rainfall observed during Harvey Hurricane in August 2017 was the all-time maximum for some of the regions in Houston, TX. This research focuses on modeling different recurrence frequency flows in a selected river reach along with the Harvey flooding condition. The statistical part involves the flood frequency analysis using generalized extreme value distribution. The floodplain analysis is performed by developing a hydraulic model using Hydraulic Engineering Center’s River Analysis System and Esri ArcMap software. Historical flow data and terrain geometric data are extracted from United States Geological Survey. A river reach of Buffalo Bayou is selected and analyzed for several flow scenarios, and flood inundation map of the affected region is developed. The model is calibrated and validated for river stage by adjusting Manning’s roughness coefficient. The evaluation of each flood stage and comparison with the Harvey flooding stage is expected to provide valuable information for floodplain management, riverside development, and for future flood assessment plans in the adjoining areas.

Keywords

Floodplain mapping; GEVHEC-RAS; Hurricane Harvey; Rainfall

Disciplines

Environmental Engineering

Language

English

UNLV article access

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