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USGS · 70116456

SToRM: A Model for Unsteady Surface Hydraulics Over Complex Terrain

Francisco J. Simoes
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Abstract

A two-dimensional (depth-averaged) finite volume Godunov-type shallow water model developed for flow over complex topography is presented. The model is based on an unstructured cellcentered finite volume formulation and a nonlinear strong stability preserving Runge-Kutta time stepping scheme. The numerical discretization is founded on the classical and well established shallow water equations in hyperbolic conservative form, but the convective fluxes are calculated using auto-switching Riemann and diffusive numerical fluxes. The model’s implementation within a graphical user interface is discussed. Field application of the model is illustrated by utilizing it to estimate peak flow discharges in a flooding event of historic significance in Colorado, U.S.A., in 2013.

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Francisco J. Simoes. 2014. SToRM: A Model for Unsteady Surface Hydraulics Over Complex Terrain. https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/70116456

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