River flood frequency estimation using continuous runoff modelling

This paper explores the estimation of river flood frequencies by modelling catchment runoff on a continuous time basis. The work uses the modelling of a sample of British catchments as a basis for generalization in space, suc h that ungauged sites can potentially be addressed by the method. The princ iples of the method are outlined. Pilot study hood frequency results for si te-specific and for spatially generalized model parameter estimation are di scussed. Examples are given of an extension of the method in time to allow estimates to be made of high recurrence interval floods, and of the ability of the method to incorporate changed climatic regimes.