Initial testing of a two-dimensional finite element model for floodplain inundation

Current research needs for the two-dimensional finite element simulation of river flood flows are discussed. It is suggested that there is a need to test such numerical models to assess critically their ability to simulate river floodplain inundation. Initial tests are undertaken within the context of an application of a two-dimensional finite element model to a 14 km river reach in the U.K. Model behaviour is examined and shown to be stable, accurate and consistent with theoretical expectations and the need for improved data acquisition for model testing is highlighted. On the basis of these numerical experiments a number of implications for current catchment scale integrated hydrological modelling are discussed.