Project ID: 2002LA4B

Title: Flood Risk Mapping of the New Orleans Area

Project Type: Research

Focus Categories: Floods, Hydrology, Surface Water

Keywords: Damage, exceedance probability, frequency distribution, return period

Start Date: 03/01/2002

End Date: 02/28/2003

Federal Funds: $19,960

Non-Federal Matching Funds: $43,559

Congressional District: LA - 6th

Principal Investigators:
Vijay P. Singh
Louisiana State University

Donald Dean Adrian
Louisiana State University

Abstract

The conventional methods of incorporating risk in floodplain delineation, and design of drainage systems and surface impoundments are the safety factor and return period. These methods are, however, inadequate and do not directly consider the damage distribution. This proposal argues for incorporation of a more comprehensive definition of risk based on three aspects: (1) scenario or cause identification, (2) probability of that scenario, and (3) the consequence of that scenario. Using this risk definition, a risk methodology is proposed for determining flood risk in the New Orleans area and then constructing a flood risk map of the area. This methodology can be easily extended to other areas of Louisiana. The risk map can be employed as a tool for making real-life decisions. The risk methodology will be verified using historical data on extreme rainfall, floods, and damage that have occurred in the New Orleans area.

Progress/Completion Report PDF