Training Exercises

A series of computer-based exercises are available to download, designed for independent learning. They have been written as part of the KULTURisk project, funded by the European Community’s Seventh Framework Programme.

Aimed at undergraduate level and above, they introduce users to numerical flood modelling using both hypothetical and real-life data, and then use the results to create risk maps, estimate uncertainty and look at flood prevention measures. Each exercise provides background information, further reading and a detailed worked example including all necessary data files. Answer documents are provided to allow users to check their working.

Some exercises require LISFLOOD-FP. Others provide instructions for Excel, MatLab or ArcMap. However, if you don’t have these or are more confident using other software, calculations are generally simple and other programs could be used.

Exercise 1: Introduction to 2D numerical flood modelling

This document describes how LISFLOOD- FP simulates propagation of a flood wave across a 2D floodplain. Users learn the differences between the four 2D solvers in LISFLOOD-FP and their pros and cons. Models are applied to two simple test cases and the results compared.

Exercise 2: Flood inundation modelling from a river channel

This exercise introduces the real- world river reach that will be used throughout the rest of the exercises. The ways in which LISFLOOD-FP simulates river and floodplain dynamics are described and users are encouraged to explore how models are set-up before running the simulations. Results are evaluated quantitatively by comparison with satellite data.

Exercise 3: Flood hazard risk mapping

Combining Exercise 2 results with mock socio-economic data, users are guided through creation of a deterministic risk map. Common concepts in risk analysis are introduced as users calculate the physical risk to people, buildings and infrastructure and the economic risk to buildings.

Exercise 4: Probabilistic hazard mapping and uncertainty

Introducing probabilistic risk maps as an alternative way of representing flood risk, the exercise guides users through one method of producing a probabilistic flood risk map. The effect of spatial dependence of the flow rates of tributaries and the uncertainty in risk calculations due to small datasets are introduced and calculated.

Exercise 5: Simulating and evaluating flood prevention measures

A number of simple, indicative flood-prevention schemes are suggested for the reach. Users modify the original LISFLOOD-FP input files to simulate and evaluate the effects of these schemes on the flood extent. The exercise should familiarise users with LISFLOOD-FP input files, how the model reacts to modifications and factors that should be considered when planning flood prevention schemes. It is not designed to teach users the technical aspects of flood engineering.