Network Evacuation Modelling for Flooding as a Result of Dam Failure

Abstract

The MASSVAC approach to network evacuation modelling is tested, and its results enhanced by a color graphics program called MVOPL. This MASSVAC-MVOPL analysis system is used to model population evacuations under the threat of flooding as a result of dam failure. The system operates on a microcomputer, with turnaround times that allow it to be rerun within a matter of minutes. The software proves to be a very effective tool for the estimation of network clearance times, and for the testing of alternative emergency traffic routing plans. The basics of the mathematical modelling approach are described, and a selection of empirical results and some graphics screens are presented. Both urban and rural applications are discussed.