Evaluation of a method to calculate debris-flow volume based on observations of flow depth
Open access
Date
2023-08-18Type
- Conference Paper
ETH Bibliography
yes
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Abstract
The volume of a debris flow is a critical parameter in hazard analysis, yet accurate estimates of volume are often unavailable due to mixing with larger rivers at the downstream end of alluvial fans. We describe a method to calculate the volume of debris flows using flow depth data collected at a check dam, using a Manning friction relation to describe the velocity of the debris flow as a function of flow depth, and the geometry of the channel cross section. The method is evaluated using a published data set from the USGS debris-flow flume where event volume and stage information have been accurately measured, and results in volume estimates either somewhat smaller than or up to 50% larger than observed volumes. We further demonstrate the method to single-surge and a multiple-surge debris flows observed at Illgraben. Show more
Permanent link
https://doi.org/10.3929/ethz-b-000653514Publication status
publishedExternal links
Book title
8th International Conference on Debris Flow Hazard Mitigation (DFHM8)Journal / series
E3S Web of ConferencesVolume
Pages / Article No.
Publisher
EDP SciencesEvent
Organisational unit
09797 - Aaron, Jordan / Aaron, Jordan
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ETH Bibliography
yes
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