Sediment transport modelling in densly populated urban areas due to earthfill dam break

Abstract

This study simulates two dimensional sediment transport, as a result of overtopping earthfill dam break, in urban areas. The model can consider breaching, removal of sediment from dam body, and transport of sediment. The model is first validated by simulating laboratory experimental data that involved measurements of levels, and longitudinal sediment profiles, and sediment distribution. Downstream side of the experimental canal is designed as; (1) smooth bed, and (2) rough bed with concrete blocks. For both cases, the model simulations are found to be satisfactory. The model is then applied to simulate artificial overtopping break scenarios of two real earthfill dams. The AW3D30 is used as the source data for representing the topographic surfaces and the LULC dataset is generated from the ESA's Sentinel-2 imagery. The results reveal that downstream of the dams can be subject to both scour, at onset of the dam break, and substantial deposition after having reservoir completely emptied. The cut can go all the way to dam bed. The scoured areas can be refilled after peak discharge recedes. Sediment depths can reach up to 1.5 m in the case of Urkmez Dam break in some areas in the vicinity of Urkmez Town and up to 3 m at the downstream area of Alibey Dam in Istanbul, implying disastrous consequences for the settlement areas.