Debris-flow recognition using an extended version of the river basin simulation model

The objective of debris-flow hazards mitigation is to develop a reliable simulation model for monitoring, recognition, and urgent warning of debris flows. Discussed herein is the 2D Debris-Flow Simulation Model (DFSM), which was developed from the original 2D River Basin Simulation Model (RBSM). The novelty of the DFSM lies in its ability for the local multiple-increase of the stream flow rate under several threshold conditions. The continued mapping of the debris-flow processes in a river basin using the DFSM is aimed to facilitate the recognition of debris flows. The DFSM was preliminarily calibrated and verified for one of the Caucasian basins in Russia. Features and conditions for implementing the DFSM in such a case study are discussed.