A groundbreaking study led by researcher Francisco Vallés Morán from the Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA) at the Universitat Politècnica de València has undertaken a detailed analysis of the devastating flooding that occurred on October 29, 2024, in l’Horta Sud, Valencia. Utilizing state-of-the-art two-dimensional hydraulic modeling techniques, this research aims to shed light on the intricate dynamics of the flood event, contributing valuable insights into flood risk management and emergency response strategies.
The findings of the study, published in the esteemed journal Cuadernos de Geografía by the University of Valencia, reveal an astonishingly accurate representation of the flooding’s dynamics, its extent, and the catastrophic overflowing flows that led to significant material and human damage. This research serves as a crucial resource for understanding the hydrological behavior of the region and highlights the need for advanced modeling approaches in hydrology.
One notable aspect of this comprehensive study is the emphasis on public information and open-access tools. These resources allowed the researchers to reconstruct the hydraulic behavior of critical hydrological systems, such as the Poyo–Torrent and Poçalet–Saleta ravine systems. The study documents extreme flow velocities, as well as flood arrival times in the towns affected, documenting water depths exceeding four meters in urban areas—a severe and alarming statistic that underscores the necessity for improvement in flood preparedness and response.
The results of the hydraulic modeling reveal an extraordinary speed and ferocity of the flood event, with recorded flow speeds reaching up to 8 meters per second. The researchers demonstrated that response times between the headwaters and the densest urban areas were alarmingly short—less than an hour—indicating the need for prompt and efficient emergency response strategies in the face of such rapidly evolving flood scenarios.
Among the main conclusions drawn from the study is the confirmation of hydraulic modeling as a reliable method for reproducing observed realities during storm events. This validation enhances the understanding of the extent of flooding, water levels, and the temporal evolution of the flooding process, solidifying the role of advanced modeling techniques in flood risk assessment and disaster response planning.
Significantly, the study identifies the impact of transport infrastructures, such as the V-31 motorway, as playing a decisive role in exacerbating the flooding situation. Backwater effects attributed to these structures are highlighted as contributors to worsening flood conditions upstream, drawing attention to the interconnectedness of infrastructure planning and hydrological impacts. This revelation calls for a careful re-evaluation of existing infrastructure in flood-prone areas to mitigate future risks.
Another innovative contribution of this research is the development of a novel tool that harnesses the hydraulic power of the flood current as an indicator of its carrying capacity. This methodology allows for the identification of the most energetic overtopping flows, focusing on the areas where this energy dissipates. These zones are critical as they are more likely to accumulate debris, people, or objects displaced by the flood waters.
The application of this cutting-edge tool proved advantageous during the October 2024 flood episode, assisting emergency services in their search for missing individuals. The georeferenced format of the tool facilitates its direct implementation in real-world scenarios, showcasing a remarkable advancement in the integration of hydraulic science into emergency management practices. The implications of this innovation extend beyond immediate rescue efforts to encompass long-term adaptations to changing climate conditions.
As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, the insights garnered from this study hold immense value for evaluating existing infrastructure and developing adaptive strategies. The researchers contend that the ability to create reliable simulations in near real-time can drastically improve decision-making processes during emergencies, optimize search and rescue operations, and ultimately save lives in future flood scenarios.
The research underscores not only the scientific importance of hydraulic modeling but also its practical applications in safeguarding communities potentially affected by flooding disasters. Vallés Morán’s work demonstrates that applied hydraulic science is essential in flood risk planning, prevention, and operational response, providing a blueprint for future investigations in hydrology, risk assessment, and emergency management.
Moreover, the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration emerges as a theme throughout the study. By integrating hydraulic science with urban planning, disaster response frameworks, and climate adaptation strategies, researchers and practitioners can create more resilient communities capable of coping with the challenges posed by increasing flood risks.
In conclusion, this significant research by Francisco Vallés Morán and his team not only advances the scientific understanding of flood dynamics but also emphasizes the crucial role of such knowledge in enhancing societal preparedness for extreme weather events. The dedication to developing practical solutions reinforces the importance of hydraulic science as a key component in effective disaster response, making strides toward a more resilient future.
Subject of Research:
Article Title: Simulación hidráulica de la inundación y flujos desbordados en la DANA del 29 de octubre de 2024 en l’Horta Sud (Valencia)
News Publication Date: 26-Dec-2025
Web References: Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering
References: doi:10.7203/CGUV.114-15.32121
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Keywords
Applied sciences and engineering, Technology
