Integrating Geographic Information Systems and Hydrometric Analysis for Assessing and Mitigating Building Vulnerability to Flash Flood Risks

Abstract

Climate change represents an overwhelming challenge that demands urgent intervention for effective resolution. Among the devastating consequences of climate change, flash floods stand out as one of the most catastrophic repercussions. This research focuses on two primary objectives. Firstly, it aims to evaluate the existing state of flash flood intensity (FFI) in a specific area of Hamamatsu city, Japan, which frequently experiences flash flood incidents. Secondly, it seeks to develop a mitigation plan to alleviate the adverse impacts of flooding on buildings within the area. To accomplish these objectives, four parameters related to FFI (namely, runoff depth, runoff velocity, runoff duration, and affected portion) were selected and estimated through the implementation of hydrological and hydrodynamic models. Additionally, a hydrological model was employed, utilizing a storm event with a return period of 100 years as input. During this simulated storm event, FFI values were calculated and categorized into four distinct levels. The results revealed that more than one-tenth of the examined buildings encountered the highest scale of FFI (category 4), while categories 3 and 4 combined accounted for nearly three-quarters of all buildings in the study area. Moreover, two mitigation strategies were adopted to prevent flooding within the buildings’ vicinity. Finally, this study provides a valuable framework and guidance for decision-makers and insurance companies, enabling them to assess the flood hazard status of buildings and make informed decisions accordingly.