A DISTRIBUTED MODEL FOR REAL-TIME FLOOD FORECASTING USING DIGITAL ELEVATION MODELS

A distributed model for real-time rainfall-runoff simulation during fl oods is presented. The model, called Distributed Basin Simulator (DBSI M) is based on the detailed topographical information provided by Digi tal Elevation Models (DEM). Basin representation uses the rectangular grid of the DEM. Soil properties, input data and state variables are a lso represented as data layers using the same scheme. Distributed rain fall input is used to map the topographically driven evolution of satu rated areas as the storm progresses. The model applies a kinematic mod el of infiltration to evaluate local runoff generation in grid element s and accounts for lateral moisture flow between elements and surface flow routing in a simplified manner. Model performance is evaluated th rough sensitivity analyses and an exercise of model calibration and ve rification.