Abstract
The study proposes an original methodology for producing probability-weighted hazard maps based on an ensemble of numerical simulations. These maps enable one to compare different strategies for flood risk management. The methodology was applied over a 270-km2 flood-prone area close to the left levee system of a 28-km reach of the river Reno (Northern Central Italy). This reach is characterised by the presence of a weir that allows controlled flooding of a large flood-prone area during major events. The proposed probability-weighted hazard maps can be used to evaluate how a structural measure such as the mentioned weir alters the spatial variability of flood hazard in the study area. This article shows an application by constructing two different flood hazard maps: a first one which neglects the presence of the weir using a regular levee system instead, and a second one that reflects the actual geometry with the weir. Flood hazard maps were generated by combining the results of several inundation scenarios, simulated by coupling 1D- and 2D-hydrodynamic models.
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Acknowledgements
The authors are extremely grateful to the Autorità di Bacino del Reno, Settore Tecnico e Protezione Civile and Consorzio Generale di Bonifica nella Provincia di Ferrara allowing access to their data of river Reno. The authors wish to thank Jeff Neal and Guy Schumann for their valuable suggestions and comments. Three unknown Reviewers and the Associate Editor are acknowledged for their useful and constructive reviews.
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Di Baldassarre, G., Castellarin, A., Montanari, A. et al. Probability-weighted hazard maps for comparing different flood risk management strategies: a case study. Nat Hazards 50, 479–496 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-009-9355-6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-009-9355-6