Summary
Human societies are becoming increasingly urban. This expansion of the built environments to accommodate increasing population numbers results not only in modifications to catchment hydrology, but also to increased risk to infrastructure due to sporadic flood events. The identification of areas at risk of flooding within a frequently visited municipal park is investigated.
In this project, learners will conduct a terrain evaluation with the goal of solving a real-life problem. This includes receiving background theory into catchment dynamics and the way in which built-up surfaces alter natural hydrological processes as well as how one would approach a terrain evaluation. Weather circulation systems that can potentially lead to extreme rainfall events in South Africa will also be discussed. Additionally, the fundamental workings of GIS will be learned and how it can be used to solve real-world challenges. Various technologies will be incorporated; such as an open-source GIS package (Quantum GIS). Learners are encouraged to practice and play around with the system at home in order to explore its functionality.
After receiving this theoretical background the learners will be taken into the field where the principles of terrain analysis will be applied. Elevation points will be collected using a GPS device and the existing natural features and infrastructure will be mapped. Following data collection the learners will learn how to import the collected data into a GIS environment and undertake spatial analysis to identify those areas within the park that are at risk of flooding.
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