We study subsurface storm flow from a planar hill slope, a problem tha
t is similar hydraulically to lateral flow toward drains in landfills.
Our analysis is based on the linearized one-dimensional Boussinesq eq
uation (Dupuit-Forchheimer approximation), which is extended to allow
for leakage through the underlying barrier. This linear advection-diff
usion equation has a greater range of validity than the kinematic wave
equation. Stating it in terms of the discharge, the variable of prima
ry hydrologic interest, we integrate it numerically, using an adaptati
on of the Muskingum-Cunge routing scheme. A single-step computation of
the outflow hydrograph, which combines the convenience of an analytic
al solution formula with acceptable accuracy, is proposed as a design
tool and as a means of parameterization of drainage from hill slopes.
Depth profiles are determined afterwards by a simple integration of Da
rcy's law. Examples of the buildup and recession phases, with and with
out leakage, demonstrate the application of the computational method.