Professor Drexel University, Pennsylvania, United States
Abstract Submission: This study examines urban flooding in the Waterfront South neighborhood of Camden, NJ, focusing on the challenges posed by modeling approach and infrastructure condition. The region was modeled using 2D models constructed in PCSWMM and HEC-RAS. The results of both models were compared to observed flooding depths measured onsite using ultrasonic sensors and camera data when forced by onsite precipitation data. Calibration of the HEC-RAS model involved adjustment of surface roughness, while the PC-SWMM model also allowed calibration of inlet clogging conditions. This comparison of model results to field conditions reveals important differences in the suitability of each model to this application. Further, the PC-SWMM model is used to conduct a sensitivity analysis on the role of inlet clogging on flood depth. By analyzing how these clogged inlets impact flood behavior, we assessed their influence on key flood dynamics such as duration, depth, and extent. The results emphasize the importance of model choice, inlet maintenance, and real time data in urban flood risk assessments. The findings can help guide more effective stormwater management strategies, infrastructure resilience planning, and flood risk mitigation efforts in vulnerable urban areas.
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