Towards a comprehensive physically-based rainfall-runoff model

• DOI: 10.5194/hess-6-859-2002
• Publication Date: 2010-04-29T14:44:40Z
• Authors: Z. Liu; E. Todini
• Keywords: Kinematic wave; Distributed element model

Abstract. This paper introduces TOPKAPI (TOPographic Kinematic APproximation and Integration), a new physically-based distributed rainfall-runoff model deriving from the integration in space of kinematic wave model. The approach transforms runoff routing processes into three ‘structurally-similar’ non-linear reservoir differential equations describing different hydrological hydraulic processes. geometry catchment is described by lattice cells over which are integrated to lead cascade reservoirs. parameter values shown be scale independent obtainable digital elevation maps, soil maps vegetation or land use terms slope, permeability, roughness topology. It can shown, under simplifying assumptions, that reservoirs aggregate cascades at basin representing soil, surface drainage network, following topographic geomorphologic elements catchment, with estimated directly small ones. main advantage this lies its capability being applied increasing spatial scales without losing physical interpretation. foreseen suitable for land-use climate change impact assessment; extreme flood analysis, given possibility extension ungauged catchments; last but not least as promising tool General Circulation Models (GCMs). To demonstrate quality comprehensive distributed/lumped approach, presents case study application Upper Reno river an area 1051 km2 based on DEM grid 200 m. In addition, real-world applying Arno basin, 8135 using 1000 m, development real-time forecasting system will described. results good agreement between observed simulated responses two catchments, encourages further developments Keywords: modelling, topographic, approximation, integration, meaning, model, lumped