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On the Horizon... FLO-2D Urban Flood Routing

Welcome to the forefront of urban flood simulation with our pioneering FLO-2D project! In this groundbreaking endeavor, we have developed an unparalleled flood routing model capable of simulating complex urban scenarios with remarkable detail. Unlike other 2D models, FLO-2D offers comprehensive solutions for urban flood challenges, including flow in streets, building obstructions, roof runoff, storm drain systems, and channels.


Our model incorporates NEXRAD storm replication, spatially varied rainfall, and infiltration dynamics to accurately mimic real-world scenarios. We also take into account the intricate storm drain system, featuring five types of inlets and manhole cover liftoff, along with street gutters interfacing with storm drain inlets, including clogging effects. The incorporation of building obstruction and roof runoff enables us to comprehend flooding risks at a granular level.


FLO-2D goes beyond just flood simulation; it embraces the essential aspects of urban flooding, such as building collapse, embankments, walls, and levee failure. Additionally, detention/retention pond storage, LID (Low Impact Development) assessment, and automated flood hazard mapping form crucial components of our comprehensive approach.


Urban channels and hydraulic structures are seamlessly integrated into our model, providing a holistic understanding of flood propagation and interaction with urban features. Furthermore, our model considers dam and levee breach scenarios, as well as sediment transport and mudflows, ensuring we account for all potential flood scenarios in urban environments.


One of the remarkable strengths of FLO-2D is its unmatched storm drain engine, surpassing the accuracy of EPA SWMM in volume conservation and surface water integration. Our model allows for concentrated flow in street gutters, entering various types of inlets with weir or orifice inlet control. Moreover, storm drain return flow is governed by the relationship between water surface elevation and storm drain pressure head, a feature that enhances the realism of our simulations.


At the core of our project is the precise timing of urban rainfall runoff and flooding, ensuring street flow, wall collapse, detention pond storage, and floodwave progression are predicted with the utmost accuracy. No other 2D models can claim such comprehensive representation of detailed physical processes.


As we look to the future, we are committed to further refining our model and addressing emerging challenges. Among the potential enhancements, we are exploring the inclusion of pollutant transport tracking to address environmental concerns and improve pollution mitigation strategies in urban areas.


Additionally, we are working to develop a two-phase sediment flow feature, which will enable the simulation of conventional sediment transport and hyperconcentrated sediment flows (mudflows). This crucial addition will enhance our ability to understand and mitigate the impacts of sediment-related hazards.


To enhance the efficiency of FLO-2D, we are continuously working on optimizing the model's speed and reporting capabilities. Our ongoing efforts in parallel processing using OpenMP and exploring GPU and FPGA accelerators aim to achieve substantial improvements in computational efficiency.


Our commitment to providing reliable and efficient flood simulation solutions remains unwavering. We are proud to offer FLO-2D at a competitive price, and our new pricing scheme incentivizes users to stay current with annual subscriptions, enabling access to the latest updates and cutting-edge features.


Experience the power of FLO-2D and its unparalleled level of urban flood simulation. Our project strives to enhance disaster preparedness, urban planning, and environmental protection, ensuring a safer and more resilient future for urban communities worldwide.

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