Application of geological information to Arizona flood hazard assessment

V. R. Baker, K. A. Demsey, L. L. Ely, J. E. Fuller, P. K. House, J. E. O'Connor, J. A. Onken, P. A. Pearthree, K. R. Vincent

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

15 Scopus citations

Abstract

Hydrological modeling procedures applied to regulatory flood-hazard zonation can be misapplied when assumptions concerning flood-hazardous processes are violated. Geomorphological mapping of the Tortolita Mountain piedmont in southern Arizona reveals extensive high-standing nonhazardous inactive, relict Pleistocene fan surfaces within zones mapped by FEMA as subject to active alluvial fan processes and 100-year flooding. Paleoflood analysis of upstream mountain canyons documents that maximum flood discharges for the past century have been about 50% lower than the regulatory (100-year) flood discharges. Geological studies are essential complements to engineering models in order to generate public confidence that regulatory requirements derive from knowledge of real rather than idealized arid-region flood-hazard processes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationHydraulics/Hydrology of Arid Lands
EditorsRichard H. French
PublisherPubl by ASCE
Pages621-626
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)0872627713
StatePublished - 1990
EventProceedings of the International Symposium on Hydraulics/Hydrology of Arid Lands and 1990 National Conference on Hydraulic Engineering - San Diego, CA, USA
Duration: Jul 30 1990Aug 2 1990

Publication series

NameHydraulics/Hydrology of Arid Lands

Other

OtherProceedings of the International Symposium on Hydraulics/Hydrology of Arid Lands and 1990 National Conference on Hydraulic Engineering
CitySan Diego, CA, USA
Period7/30/908/2/90

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Engineering

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