Integrative Runoff Infiltration Modeling of Mountainous Urban Karstic Terrain

Abstract

Global climate change, combined with the construction of impermeable urban elements, tends to increase runoff, which might cause flooding and reduce groundwater recharge. Moreover, the first flash of these areas might accumulate pollutants that might deteriorate groundwater quality. A digital elevation model (DEM) describes urban landscapes by representing the watershed relief at any given location. While, in concept, finer DEMs and land use classification (LUC) are yielding better hydrological models, it is suggested that over-accuracy overestimates minor tributaries that might be redundant. Optimal DEM resolution with integrated spectral and feature-based LUC was found to reflect the hydrological network’s significant tributaries. To cope with the karstic urban watershed complexity, ModClark Transform and SCS Curve Number methods were integrated over a GIS-HEC-HMS platform to a nominal urban watershed sub-basin analysis procedure, allowing for detailed urban runoff modeling. This precise urban karstic terrain modeling procedure can predict runoff volume and discharge in urban, mountainous karstic watersheds, and may be used for water-sensitive design or in such cities to control runoff and prevent its negative impacts.