The complexities of urban flood response : Flood frequency analyses for the Charlotte metropolitan region

摘要: We examine urban flood response through data-driven analyses for a diverse sample of “small” watersheds (basin scale ranging from 7.0 to 111.1 km2) in the Charlotte Metropolitan region. These have experienced extensive urbanization and suburban development since 1960s. The objective this study is develop broad characterization land surface hydrometeorological controls hydrology. Our are based on peaks-over-threshold data developed USGS streamflow observations motivated by problems hazard regions. flood-producing rainfall using high-resolution (1 km2 spatial resolution 15 min time resolution), bias-corrected radar fields that Hydro-NEXRAD system. focus 2001–2015 period. results highlight complexities response. There striking heterogeneities peak magnitudes, times, runoff ratios across mainly linked watershed scale, distribution impervious cover, storm water management. Contrasting properties also determine mixture flood-generating mechanisms particular watershed. Warm-season thunderstorm systems tropical cyclones main agents Charlotte, with winter/spring storms playing role less-urbanized watersheds. exerts strong impact upper tail frequency distributions. Antecedent wetness plays minor response, compared Implications advances science discussed.