Author(s): Poh Hoon Ang; Chai Teck Ho
Linked Author(s): Chai Teck Ho, Poh Hoon Ang
Keywords: Hydrodynamics coastal protection flood models storm surges
Abstract: As a low-lying coastal city-state situated in the tropics, Singapore is particularly vulnerable to the dual threats of sea-level rise and intense rainfall events. This vulnerability is further underscored by findings from 3rd National Climate Change Study by the Centre for Climate Research Singapore (CCRS), which projected a sea level rise of up to 1.15m by 2100 and the extreme rainfall is expected to intensify. In response, PUB, Singapore’s national water and coastal protection agency, is developing a national flood model that carried out holistic flood risk assessment to guide adaptation strategies. The key impetus of the model development is to enable spatial and temporal dynamic scenario simulations for coastal adaptation planning, allowing us to better investigate dual effects of inland intense rainfall and coastal events for effective flood management. This paper presents the development and operationalisation of a physics-based coastal inland flood model, designed to simulate flood risks under different climate scenarios. The model utilises sea level rise projections and rainfall data as key driving forces to simulate flood extents and assess impacts in vulnerable areas. It is developed to support long-term climate adaptation planning. Incorporating forecast data, the model is also used for flood forecasting to facilitate flood response operations. The model will use comprehensive datasets from global climate models as well as high-resolution digital elevation model and bathymetry data for advanced hydrodynamics simulations. The paper will focus on the collaborative effort between government agencies, academia, and consultants, highlighting how the various stakeholders contributed their expertise and resources to develop the model. Challenges and opportunities encountered in integrating this model into national decision-making frameworks will also be covered.
Year: 2025