Hydraulic Modeling of Flash Floods in Sana'a

A comprehensive hydraulic modeling study of flash floods in Sana'a, Yemen, identifies critical flood hazard zones along the city's major stormwater channel, which poses significant risks to lives and infrastructure. The research, conducted with support from the World Bank and Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Reconstruction, quantifies flooding extent and depth for extreme events using HEC-RAS and HEC-GeoRAS tools. Challenges such as limited digital elevation data and rapid urbanization were addressed to map floodplains, aiding in risk assessment, mitigation planning, and the development of early warning systems. Climate change and urban expansion have exacerbated flood hazards, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention.

Papakos, T. H., & Root, K. (2010). Hydraulic Modeling of Flash Floods in Sana’a. World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2010, 1524–1533. https://doi.org/10.1061/41114(371)161