Hydrology and flood risk studies for projects
Wadi networks, flash flood events and arid terrain present significant challenges for infrastructure, energy and industrial project development. Proper hydrology studies are essential for safe siting, drainage design, flood protection and regulatory approvals.
Cenpace delivers hydrology, drainage and flood risk studies using HEC-HMS rainfall-runoff modelling and HEC-RAS hydraulic modelling, combined with GIS-based catchment analysis, satellite data and topographic survey inputs.
Our studies support feasibility, FEED, detailed design and post-flood damage assessment for solar, wind, oil & gas, road, pipeline and industrial projects.
What we deliver
Hydrological analysis
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Catchment delineation and area calculation
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Rainfall intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) analysis
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Peak flow estimation (rational method and HEC-HMS)
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Runoff volume and hydrograph generation
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Return period analysis (1:50, 1:100, 1:500 year)
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Wadi flow path and drainage network mapping
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Flash flood exposure and vulnerability assessment
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Antecedent moisture and soil classification inputs
Hydraulic modelling and flood mapping
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HEC-RAS 1D/2D hydraulic modelling
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Flood extent and inundation mapping
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Flood depth and velocity mapping
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Water surface profile analysis
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Floodplain boundary delineation
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Wadi crossing hydraulic assessment
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Freeboard and setback recommendations
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GIS flood layers (SHP / GeoTIFF)
Drainage and culvert design inputs
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Site drainage assessment and layout
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Culvert sizing inputs and design basis
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Stormwater retention and attenuation inputs
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Road drainage study and design basis
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Outfall and discharge point assessment
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Diversion bund and flood barrier inputs
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Site grading and drainage slope review
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Drainage infrastructure condition assessment
Reporting and deliverables
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Hydrology and flood risk report
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HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS model files
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GIS flood maps and catchment layers
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Design basis document for engineers
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Executive summary for project teams
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Flood protection recommendations
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Authority submission support
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Post-event damage review and reporting
Where this service is used
Solar PV and wind farms
Oil & gas facilities
Roads and highways
Pipeline and utility corridors
Industrial zones
Substations and grid infrastructure
Wadi crossings and culverts
Mining and quarry sites
Ports and logistics areas
Residential and commercial developments
Government infrastructure projects
Post-flood damage areas
Service approach
01
Project scoping and data review
Site location, project type, catchment boundary, available topographic data and project requirements are reviewed. Return periods, design standards and reporting format are agreed.
02
Catchment delineation and rainfall analysis
Catchments are delineated using DEM and GIS tools. Rainfall IDF analysis is performed using regional meteorological data and applicable design standards.
03
Hydrological modelling
HEC-HMS rainfall-runoff modelling is performed to generate peak flows and hydrographs for the required return periods. Rational method is used for smaller catchments where appropriate.
04
Hydraulic modelling and flood mapping
HEC-RAS 1D/2D hydraulic modelling is carried out using topographic survey or DEM data. Flood extent, depth and velocity maps are produced as GIS layers.
05
Report and design basis delivery
A structured hydrology and flood risk report is delivered covering methodology, results, GIS outputs, flood protection recommendations and design basis inputs for engineering teams.
Frequently asked questions
What data do you need to start a hydrology study?
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We typically need the site boundary, project location coordinates, project type and the required return periods. Topographic survey data, where available, improves model accuracy. We can also work with satellite-derived DEM data for early-stage studies.
Can you provide flood depth and velocity maps?
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Yes. Flood extent, depth and velocity outputs can be prepared as report figures and GIS layers, delivered alongside the engineering report.
Do you need a topographic survey for hydrology?
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For early-stage studies, DEM and satellite data may be used. For detailed design and higher model accuracy, topographic survey data is recommended and can be integrated into the hydraulic model.
Which return periods can be assessed?
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Common return periods include 1:50, 1:100 and 1:500 years, depending on client, authority and project requirements. Additional return periods are available on request.
Can this support road and culvert design?
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Yes. The study can provide flow estimates, flood levels and drainage inputs for culverts, wadi crossings and road drainage protection design.