Flood Evacuation Modelling

Developed modelling software combining transport simulation modelling with flood modelling to support NSW Government’s emergency planning, regional land use planning and road planning frameworks

The model focused on the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley region in north-west Sydney and demonstrated levels of risk through modelling evacuating vehicles under nominated criteria

The Flood Evacuation Model 2 (FEM2) estimates and forecasts nominated factors based on a range of river rising flooding events up to the Probable Maximum Flood using Multi-Agent Transport Simulation (MATSim) software. FEM2 has the capability of efficiently measuring locality-specific risk-to-life and operational performance of the evacuation network when loaded with a range of land uses, dam heights, road upgrades and operational options.

The development approach for FEM2 involved unique customisation as well as significant inputs from NSW State Emergency Service, Infrastructure NSW, and Transport for NSW.

Achievements
  • FEM2 delivers a customised model program with user-friendly dashboard which produces consistent, repeatable, and reliable results.

  • Independent reviews supported that FEM2 was rational, produced consistency, was fit for purpose, produced valid outcomes and that its parameters were reasonable and appropriate.

Flood Evacuation Modelling »