TR-137 : Guidelines for application of Muskingum Cunge method of flood routing

Abstract

Muskingum-Cunge method is a simplified method for flood routing involving use for physical characteristics of channel and also flow characteristics for estimation of parameters. It provides a linear kinematic wave solution and shows flood wave attenuation due to numerical diffusion of the scheme. A unique feature of the Muskingum-Cunge method is the grid independence of the calculated outflow hydrograph, which sets it apart from other linear kinematic wave solutions. Ponce and Yevjevich(1975) have presented an improved version of the Muskingum-Cunge method. This guide line provides an interactive as well as conventional (optional) computer program for use on PCs for calibration as well as simulation using Muskingum-Cunge method, along with provision for incorporation of lateral inflow. Both The modes i .e. interactive and conventional, of the program include sufficient checks for obtaining best possible results. It also provides option for generating the triangular shaped inflow hydrograph for use in routing, for solutions when only information available is peak discharge, time to peak and time base. Wherever rating curve is available, it is used for wave celerity computation, otherwise, the information about the average flow of the site corresponding to the inflow peak is used for this purpose. Input data organization is illustrated for various nine tests with the help of Flow Chart and in conventional way for guidance of users.