Author(s): Xiaobo Chao; Yafei Jia; A. K. M. Azad Hossain
Linked Author(s): Yafei Jia, Xiaobo Chao
Keywords: 3D numerical model; Wind–driven flow; Satellite imagery; Midwest flood
Abstract: This paper presents application of a three-dimensional numerical model for simulating the flow field and pollutant transport in natural waters. The model was valided using experimental measurements, and applied to a real case in Oakville, Iowa inundation zone. Oakville is a small town near Iowa River and Mississippi River. Due to a levee breaching along the Iowa River during the US Midwest Flood in 2008, this small town was completely flooded for a couple of weeks. It was observed that some pollutants were leached and transported in the flood zone. Leaching of pollutants from residential and farming facilities were reported during the flood and were identified using 10 m resolution satellite imagery. The water of the inundated area was almost static, except wind induced flow circulations. The simulated results of pollutant distributions generally agreed with the observed data obtained from satellite imagery.
Year: 2009