Our flood estimation expertise, the result of many years of hydrological monitoring, modelling and analysis, has been a primary focus of UKCEH and its predecessor organisations for more than 40 years.
Building on the ground-breaking Flood Studies Report (1975) and Flood Estimation Handbook (1999), our research improves the accuracy and reliability of flood frequency estimates in the UK primarily for the design and appraisal of flood management schemes and flood risk maps, but also for other catchment management activities.
Our latest statistical rainfall model (FEH13) has been formally adopted by OFWAT as the standard method for assessing the severity of rainfall events.
In addition, UKCEH works with partners to deliver the NRFA Peak Flow Data Service to support flood risk estimation.
Product: The Flood Estimation Handbook
The FEH Web Service provides the catchment data and rainfall model outputs that are required to apply the industry-standard methods for assessing flood risk in the UK. The FEH provides guidance, data, standard procedures and software for rainfall and river flood frequency analysis, and now includes the estimation of development site runoff rates across the UK.
FEH data and methods support:
- Flood risk assessment and mapping
- Design of flood risk management infrastructure
- Design of structures such as bridges, culverts and reservoir spillways
- Rarity assessment of notable rainfalls or floods
- Sustainable and traditional drainage system design.