Enhancing debris flow simulation accuracy through high-resolution terrain information: a case study utilizing LS-RAPID and UAV-derived models

Abstract

This study focused on applying numerical simulations to assess damaged areas caused by debris flows, employing the LS-RAPID program while emphasizing the importance of terrain information. Terrain information used in the numerical simulation included a 1:5000 digital terrain map and a digital surface model using an unmanned aerial vehicle. Quantification of the amount of soil that collapsed from the road embankment slope, which is the source of the debris flow, facilitated the computation of the debris flow that closely resembled real-world conditions. In particular, incorporating the high-resolution digital surface model (DSM) with 3-cm topographic information resulted in an interpretation of the actual soil flow damage range that is similar to actual observations of the digital elevation model (DEM), which had 1-m grid topographic information. This difference arises from DSM as it reflects the information of low hills downstream. The range of damage changed as the direction of the debris flow changed because of the low hill. Many variables need adjustment for the accuracy of debris flow numerical simulation. However, the direction and range of flow vary greatly depending on topographic information, highlighting the necessity of applying high-resolution terrain information. The results of debris flow simulations with high-resolution terrain information are expected to improve accuracy and help prepare risk or damage maps.