Hydraulic simulation of urban flooding in Monterrey, Mexico: lessons from Hurricane Alberto Academic Article in Scopus uri icon

abstract

  • Hurricane Alberto struck Monterrey in June 2024, causing severe urban flooding and revealing weaknesses in flood control systems. This study integrates hydrological and hydraulic analyses to evaluate flood dynamics along the Santa Catarina River and assess infrastructure resilience. Peak flows for 10-, 50-, and 100-year return periods were estimated using frequency analysis and rainfall-runoff modelling. HEC-RAS validated peak discharge through image recognition and modelling, while Iber¿a fully 2D model¿simulated flood extent, depth, and velocity. Results show critical infrastructure remains highly vulnerable, with high velocities near bridge piers posing scour risks and overtopping affecting urban mobility. The findings underscore the need for reinforced foundations and better planning, demonstrating the value of integrated modelling for flood risk management in metropolitan areas. The analysis offers lessons for other cities, showing how past floods can inform future resilience strategies. © 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

publication date

  • January 1, 2025