Morphometric analysis for flood flow formation feature identification (on example of Ulaanbaatar agglomeration)

Abstract

Water flows with significant flow rate feature a high destructive force and can lead to catastrophic consequences. Fluvial processes caused by uneven distribution of rain precipitation over the area pose risks to the developed inland foothill territories. The purpose of this study is to carry out a quantitative morphometric analysis of the territory in order to identify the formation features of flood flows. The analysis and ranking of catchment basins are performed using a basin approach. On the basis of SRTM images and the use of stock cartographic material in the GIS program the authors have built specialized electronic maps that allow to obtain quantitative parameters reflecting the morphometry of the basins under analysis including basin geometry, drainage network and terrain relief. On example of the Ulaanbaatar agglomeration territory it is shown how initial morphometric parameters of basins and watercourses (length, width, area, perimeter, erosion dissection, drainage network density, terrain relief coefficient, Melton coefficient, etc.) form the features of flood flow. For developed territories, the initial data on the catchment basin morphometry constitute the basis for compilation of specialized maps to be used in planning and construction. The combination of morphometric indicators on the territory of the Ulaanbaatar agglomeration indicates that there is possibility of large flood formation and development of dangerous mudstone flows in some catchment basins.