Flood modeling and fluvial dynamics: A scoping review on the role of sediment transport

Accurate flood mapping is crucial for enhancing community resilience in the face of flooding. Among the several factors that affect the flood extent, the effect of fluvial dynamics is not clearly recognized so far. Fluvial dynamics play an important role in shaping the patterns and magnitudes of water flow and sediment transport in riverine environments, that consequently affect flood extent. By conducting a scoping review, this paper aims to show how the river's hydrological processes and channel morphology impact floods and flood mapping. To do that, previous studies dealing with flood modeling have been explored to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between fluvial dynamics and flood mapping outcomes. The results showed that morphodynamic variations and sediment transport impact flooding differently depending on local morphological conditions. Some studies indicate that these processes can increase the likelihood of flooding, potentially posing greater risks to nearby areas. Conversely, other research suggests that these morphodynamic variations may help reduce flood occurrences, signaling a nuanced relationship between river morphology and flood dynamics. Additionally, it was found that while bed-load movements significantly influence the synchronization of peak water surface elevation and peak flow times, suspended sediment concentration has minimal impact on the timing and shape of the hydrograph. The results emphasize the crucial role of integrating fluvial hydro-morphodynamics into flood mapping to enhance flood management in riverine environments, contributing to both increased resilience and broader sustainable development goals. [Display omitted] •The influence of sediment dynamics and channel morphology on floods is reviewed.•Sediment impacts flooding differently depending on local morphological conditions.•The findings stress the need to include sediment dynamics in flood studies.