Application of the British Columbia MetPortal for Estimation of Probable Maximum Precipitation and Probable Maximum Flood for a Coastal Watershed

Abstract

Estimation of the Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) and Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) are regulatory requirements in many jurisdictions that are used in the design of dams and assessment of existing infrastructure. The recently available British Columbia MetPortal provides regionally consistent PMP and precipitation frequency estimates across the province of British Columbia (BC). This paper proposes an approach to process and apply this data for the estimation of the PMF for watersheds across British Columbia. Guidelines are presented for selection of transposition points applicable to a watershed, and algorithms are developed for processing the geospatial probable maximum storm and precipitation frequency data. The algorithms developed are generic to multiple software and programming environments, and could also be applied in other regions where spatially and temporally intact PMP estimates are available. A detailed description of data sources and development of PMF scenario inputs is provided, as well as details of important sensitivity analyses. The methodology is applied to estimate the PMF for the Cheakamus Basin north of Squamish British Columbia. The application of the MetPortal PMP and precipitation frequency estimates, when used with a consistent PMF development methodology as proposed in this paper, will help improve the consistency of PMF estimates for watersheds across the province, offering a welcome improvement for dam owners and regulators.