Using a multiphysics coupling-oriented flood modelling approach to assess urban flooding under various regulation scenarios combined with rainstorms and tidal effects

Abstract

Climate change and rapid urbanisation have intensified urban flooding. Flood models constructed using hydrological and hydrodynamic approaches are crucial tools for simulating and regulating urban flooding processes. Urban flooding arises from the interplay of various physical processes in urban water systems, influenced by heterogeneous urban surfaces, underground structures, and intricate river networks influencing surface flow, which must be considered in flood models. For coastal cities with intricate drainage systems, the disasters of combined rainstorms and tidal flooding can be mitigated through river scheduling and real-time control of hydraulic structures. However, a lack of research on the effectiveness of flood regulations limits the application of flood models. This study proposes a flood modelling approach oriented towards the coupling of multiphysics processes, achieving a comprehensive simulation and regulation of the flood process. A surface flood control model was created by coupling hydrological and hydrodynamic processes using the Storm Water Management Model and the orthogonal storage cell model, enabled by data exchange synchronisation technology. Subsequently, the model’s accuracy was validated using observed rainstorm events, identifying drainage system overflows and land surface inundation. Finally, the developed model was applied to analyse the enhancing effect of tides on rainstorm-induced flooding and the impact of various control scenarios. This study offers theoretical direction for large-scale urban flood modelling and model development, offering significant references for revisiting urban planning and formulating flood prevention strategies under the joint impact of rainstorms and tides.