Impact of Climate Change and Land Use on Urban Flooding: Insights from Hydrological Modelling

Urban flooding is a rising concern globally due to climate change, urbanization, and anthropogenic activities. Rising temperatures and altered rainfall and temperature patterns have led to increased flood frequency and intensity. In India, 12% of the land area and over 5161 urban local bodies are flood-prone, with annual losses exceeding $3 billion. Urbanization exacerbates flooding by increasing impervious surfaces, accelerating runoff, and overwhelming drainage systems. The loss of green spaces and poor waste management further contribute to waterlogging and drainage blockage. Climate change intensifies these challenges by increasing the severity of extreme weather events, while urban heat islands amplify rainfall. Hydrological modeling, including 1D, 2D, and coupled 1D-2D models, is crucial for simulating flood behavior. These models predict water levels, flood depths, and flow velocities using equations based on physical laws. Coupled 1D-2D models provide a balanced approach for large floodplains, offering both computational efficiency and detailed flow dynamics. The study underscores the need for advanced modeling and climate adaptation strategies to mitigate urban flood risks effectively.