Getting Started with HEC-HMS
What is HEC-HMS?
HEC-HMS is the Hydrologic Engineering Center's Hydrologic Modeling System—a computer software used for watershed modeling and analyzing water flow in rivers and streams resulting from rainfall events or other water sources. It aids in flood forecasting, water supply planning, and floodplain management, providing valuable insights for water resource professionals.
HEC-HMS 101: A Step-by-Step Tour of Watershed Modeling
In this comprehensive video, we will dive into the world of watershed modeling, covering everything you need to know from start to finish. Whether you're a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, join us as we explore data requirements, watershed delineation, model setup, hydrologic methods, control setup, model run, and analysis of results. Get ready to unravel the secrets of HEC-HMS and master the art of hydrologic modeling. Let's embark on this enlightening journey together!
HEC-HMS Model Development + Model Optimization Using Observed Streamflow Hydrograph
In this video, You will learn how to:
Set up the hydrologic model in HEC-HMS by defining hydrologic components, such as precipitation, evaporation, infiltration, runoff generation, routing, and channel flow. Configure sub-basins and hydrologic response units within the watershed.
Determine the variables within the HEC-HMS model that can be adjusted to achieve the optimization objective.
Choose an appropriate optimization method or algorithm.
Run the optimization algorithm iteratively. In each iteration, the optimization algorithm modifies the decision variables within the defined constraints, runs the HEC-HMS simulation, evaluates the objective function, and adjusts the decision variables based on the optimization method's rules.
Other useful resources
Download and Process Soil Data for Your Watershed
In this video, I guide you through the process of downloading and pre-processing soil texture SSURGO data for hydrologic and watershed modeling purposes. Understanding soil characteristics is crucial for accurate modeling, and we'll show you the step-by-step procedure to acquire and prepare the necessary data. Whether you're new to hydrologic modeling or seeking to refine your skills, join us on this journey to harness the power of soil data in your modeling endeavors.
Download and Process Land Use and Land Cover Data for Yor Watershed
Understanding the land use and cover characteristics is essential for accurate modeling, and we'll walk you through the step-by-step procedure to obtain and prepare the necessary data. Whether you're a beginner or looking to enhance your modeling skills, join us as we unlock the potential of NLCD data in your hydrological and watershed analyses.
Create Curve Number Raster Using ArcHydro Tools in ArcGIS Pro
The following video demonstrates how you can use ArcGIS Pro and ArcHydro to determine a CN Raster layer for your study area.
Curve Number Determination Process by Land Use and Soil Data Using ArcGIS Pro Built-in Tools
The Curve Number (CN) method is a widely used method in hydrology to estimate the amount of stormwater runoff from an area. The CN method is based on the characteristics of the land use, soil type, and antecedent moisture conditions of a particular area. The CN method is commonly used in the design of stormwater management systems, flood control projects, and watershed modeling.
Note that the CN values used in ArcGIS Pro are typically taken from tables or equations that are based on empirical data. The specific CN values used will depend on the land use, soil type, and antecedent moisture conditions of the area being analyzed.
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)-Curve Number (CN) Method Theory
The Curve Number Method (or simply CN Method) was developed by Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), formerly known as Soil Conservation Service (SCS). It is an empirical method used in hydrology for predicting rainfall excess and infiltration. Below are 4 videos that help you understand the theory behind this popular method (watch in order):
Download NOAA Atlas 14 Rain Frequency Estimates from the Precipitation Frequency Data Server (PFDS)
In this informative video tutorial, we walk you through the process of downloading NOAA Atlas 14 Rain Frequency Estimates from the Precipitation Frequency Data Server (PFDS) for hydrologic modeling and watershed modeling purposes. Understanding precipitation frequency is crucial for accurate hydrological and watershed analyses, and we'll guide you step-by-step on how to access this valuable data. Whether you're new to hydrologic modeling or seeking to enhance your watershed modeling skills, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge to utilize NOAA Atlas 14 data effectively in your projects.
Unit Hydrograph Theory and Application
In this two-part video series, we delve into the fascinating world of Unit Hydrograph Theory for hydrologic modeling and watershed modeling purposes. Unit Hydrographs are powerful tools used to simulate the hydrological response of a watershed to rainfall events. In Part 1, we lay the foundation by explaining the theory and principles behind Unit Hydrographs, and in Part 2, we demonstrate practical applications and how to create and use Unit Hydrographs in your modeling projects. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced modeler, join us on this journey to unlock the potential of Unit Hydrographs in understanding and managing water flow in watersheds