CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Goulter, I.C.; and Hannan, T.C.
Date : 1984
Title : Flood warnings and flood responses for the Red River of the North
Publication : Water Resources Bulletin
Issue : 20(4):
Page(s) : 599-610
Abstract
The valley of the Red River of the North is prone to frequent spring flooding. The relatively long time required for the river flows caused by spring melt to approach peak stages permits a general prediction of flood hydrographs and flood levels several weeks in advance of the actual event. The Red River crosses the boundary between the USA and Canada. While there are some differences in the flood prediction techniques across the border, the major differences in the flooding conditions lie in the actions taken by those exposed to the flood hazard and in the governmental response to the emergency situation. The accuracy of the prediction measures for the major floods in recent history is reviewed, and the differences between the way in which the American and Canadian authorities approach the flood emergencies are outlined. The accuracy of the forecasts are plotted against a number of parameters which reflect the efficiency of the flood fighting measures initiated by those flood forecasts. Due to the centrally co-ordinated reactive nature of the response to the flood forecast in Canada, flood damage reduction measures undertaken the the Canadian portion of the Red River valley may be more effective in reducing overall damages across the whole of the flooded region. The differences in the response to flood warnings also carries over to the post-flood activities, but the differences are not as significant at this stage. No definite relationship between damages averted and accuracy of flood forecast was observed.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology