Flood forecasting for JBA Bentley engineering schemes
Flood forecasting in complex catchments presents significant challenges due to uncertainties in rainfall and catchment conditions, often requiring careful interpretation of data and model outputs. Since 2023, we have been providing bespoke flood forecasting services to JBA Bentley to support channel engineering works.
- Client JBA Bentley/Environment Agency
- Location UK
- Services Engineering
Holderness Drain Pumping Station
JBA Bentley was appointed to install a new pumping station at Holderness Drain in Hull. This required the channel to be closed using cofferdams and flow diverted via a pumping station during a 3-week construction phase.
We developed a bespoke 3-day forecasting system combining a simple hydrological model with observed and forecasted rainfall, river and tide levels. This provided early warnings of increased flow rates, enabling operators to adjust pumping capacity and maintain safe levels in the drain.
A team of hydrologists issued daily forecasts with detailed insights on tides, expected flows and a 48-hour outlook, ensuring confidence and preparedness for the construction team.
River Rother gate structure and fish pass
We supported JBA Bentley’s work on the River Rother, replacing a gate structure and the installation of a fish pass. The site had a syphon structure able to bypass flows. However, this had a restricted capacity.
We re-calibrated a hydrological model to improve accuracy at critical flow thresholds, combining it with rainfall data to send text alerts for expected elevated flows. A web interface was also provided, enabling engineers to access 5-day probabilistic flow forecasts and plan activities with confidence.
Additionally, we tested an LSTM machine learning model alongside the rainfall-runoff model in the latter stages to explore potential performance and accuracy improvements.
Tailored flood forecasting for increased confidence
Both of these projects provided an excellent opportunity to deliver in-house services to our engineering teams. The flood forecasting system also played a key role in building confidence with the Environment Agency Flood Risk Officer overseeing the works.
Our system, based on Delft-FEWS, utilises the same models and data as the Environment Agency’s own flood forecasting tools. Its modular design allows us to quickly develop bespoke forecasting solutions tailored to specific schemes or assets at risk of flooding. This approach is particularly valuable where national forecasting services lack the detail required for operational decision-making.
Contact Paul Wass or Rebecca Stroud for more information on our local flood forecasting services.
