Modeling the Downstream Consequences of the Teton Dam Failure
Additional Funding Sources
This project is supported by the National Science Foundation Award, DMS No. 1419108.
Abstract
As dam failure infrastructure in the US deteriorates with age, methods to evaluate dam failure and downstream consequences are critical. Computer simulations present an opportunity to understand dam failures better. The Teton Dam Failure of 1976 provides a case study for characterizing earthen dam failure. Herein, a numerical model of the Teton Dam failure is developed. A two-dimensional (2D) full shallow water equation numerical model, GeoClaw v.5.4.1, is used to simulate the dam failure. This research aims understand what geophysical parameters are needed to calibrate the numerical model. It also aims to define an efficient and specific workflow for numerically modeling the downstream consequences with GeoClaw. The results of this study, flood arrival times, reservoir volume, flooding depth, and flood boundary agreement were verified through the integration of historical data via simulation gauges. Downstream consequence modeling allows for a better understanding of dam failure risks. This study of the historical Teton Dam failure with GeoClaw is important because it lends to improved knowledge of modeling complex floods with downstream communities at-risk. With an increased understanding, futuristic modeling with this workflow approach could improve mitigation and community resiliency.
Modeling the Downstream Consequences of the Teton Dam Failure
As dam failure infrastructure in the US deteriorates with age, methods to evaluate dam failure and downstream consequences are critical. Computer simulations present an opportunity to understand dam failures better. The Teton Dam Failure of 1976 provides a case study for characterizing earthen dam failure. Herein, a numerical model of the Teton Dam failure is developed. A two-dimensional (2D) full shallow water equation numerical model, GeoClaw v.5.4.1, is used to simulate the dam failure. This research aims understand what geophysical parameters are needed to calibrate the numerical model. It also aims to define an efficient and specific workflow for numerically modeling the downstream consequences with GeoClaw. The results of this study, flood arrival times, reservoir volume, flooding depth, and flood boundary agreement were verified through the integration of historical data via simulation gauges. Downstream consequence modeling allows for a better understanding of dam failure risks. This study of the historical Teton Dam failure with GeoClaw is important because it lends to improved knowledge of modeling complex floods with downstream communities at-risk. With an increased understanding, futuristic modeling with this workflow approach could improve mitigation and community resiliency.