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Flood mapping with HEC-RAS 2D

  • Master
  • Summer
  • Financial support offered

Project description

When do flood dynamics and simulation choices affect the flooded area?

The objective is to evaluate the influence of flood hydrographs and numerical parameters on the mapping of flood-prone areas. The project is based on HEC-RAS 2D simulations applied to the Nord and Delisle rivers in Quebec.

Why this project? Two floods with the same peak discharge may differ in duration, volume, and rise rate. These differences can alter the filling of storage areas, connections to the floodplain, and the propagation of water.

1 – Wave propagation · 2 – Floodplain storage · 3 – Side connections
Conceptual illustration adapted from a previous HEC-RAS image; it does not represent the study sites.

Factors to consider: Flood shape and volume, flow regimes, mesh, and calculation time step.

The master’s project involves developing comparable scenarios, analyzing their effects on water levels, flow velocities, and flooded areas, and then formulating methodological recommendations. This project combines an understanding of physical processes, numerical simulations, and geomatics. It aims to provide a stronger basis for the modelling choices used to delineate flood zones. In particular, the analysis will seek to understand whether some storage areas are used differently depending on flood duration and how these differences affect the delineation of flooded areas.

Start date

Summer 2027

Study programs

MSc in Water Science, Eau Terre Environnement Research Centre, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS)

Research supervision

Étienne Foulon, INRS Professor

Funding

INRS offers financial aid to all its students. For more information.

Required qualifications 

  • Interest in river hydraulics, data analysis, and mapping. Basic courses in hydraulics and hydrology are an asset.
  • HEC-RAS 2D and ArcGIS-QGIS will be the primary tools used. Python is optional and may be used to automate some simulations and data processing tasks.
  • You will develop skills in data preparation, model validation, sensitivity analysis, and the physical interpretation of results.

To apply

Please use the form below to submit your application, including the following documents in PDF format:

  • CV in Canadian format
  • Cover letter clearly explaining how your expertise aligns with the project’s needs, as well as your proposed career path.
  • All your university transcripts
  • Contact information for two referees or letters of recommendation
Published - ETE - Etienne Foulon - Flood mapping with HEC-RAS 2D

Project title : Flood mapping with HEC-RAS 2D

Curriculum vitæ (CV) *

Maximum file size: 4MB

CV in Canadian format.
Cover letter *

Maximum file size: 4MB

Cover letter clearly explaining how your expertise aligns with the project’s needs, as well as your proposed career path.
University transcripts *

Maximum file size: 4MB

Contact information for two referees or letters of recommendation *

Maximum file size: 4MB

How did you hear about this study project?
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