Two-dimensional numerical modeling of dam-break flows over natural terrain using a central explicit scheme

► We developed 2D numerical model for simulation of dam break flows. ► The model uses a well-balanced, positivity-preserving central explicit scheme. ► The model is rigorously tested against complex analytical and experimental tests. ► The developed model is applied to simulate a real world problem. ► The model is found suitable for dam break flow simulation in real word. A two-dimensional (2D) numerical model has been developed to solve shallow water equations for simulation of dam-break flows. The spatial derivatives are discretized using a well-balanced explicit central upwind conservative scheme. The scheme is Riemann solver free and guarantees the positivity of the flow depth over complex topography if the Courant number is kept less than 0.25. The time integration is performed by Euler’s scheme. The model is verified against analytical results for water surface elevation and discharge for three benchmark test cases. A good agreement between analytical solutions and computed results is observed. The property of well-balancing in still water over an uneven bottom is also confirmed. The model is then validated by simulating a laboratory experiment in which a dam break flow propagates over a triangular obstacle. The model performance was found to be satisfactory. A dam break laboratory experimental test case on a frictionless horizontal bottom is also simulated for 2D validation of the model, and good agreement between simulation and the experimental data is observed. The suitability of the proposed model for real life applications is demonstrated by simulating the Malpasset dam-break event, which occurred in 1959 in France. The computed arrival time of the flood wave front and the maximum flow depths at various observation points matched well with the measurements on a 1/400 scale physical model. The overall performance indicates that this model can be applied for simulation of dam-break waves in real life cases.