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Automatic calibration tool for river models based on the MHYSER software

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Abstract

Due to their complex nature, river models require extensive calibration in order to achieve reliable model predictions. Manually fitting the numerous parameters included in this procedure can be a laborious and repetitive process. This paper presents a new instrument, developed specifically for the automatic calibration of river models based on the software MHYSER. The instrument is completely autonomous and returns the model with the parameter values giving rise to the smallest difference between the model-generated observations and the measured observations. It utilises the software PEST to fit continuous calibration parameters and exceeds the program’s capabilities in order to also fit discontinuous calibration parameters. Testing of the instrument is accomplished using three models, one of which was developed during a study on the dynamics of sediments on the Romaine River, situated in the Eastern region of the Province of Quebec.

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  1. Département des génies civil, géologique et des mines (CGM), École Polytechnique de Montréal, C.P. 6079 succ. Centre-ville, Montreal, QC, H3C 3A7, Canada

    Justin McKibbon & Tew-Fik Mahdi

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  1. Justin McKibbon
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  2. Tew-Fik Mahdi
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Correspondence to Tew-Fik Mahdi.

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McKibbon, J., Mahdi, TF. Automatic calibration tool for river models based on the MHYSER software. Nat Hazards 54, 879–899 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-010-9512-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-010-9512-y

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