Challenge
The Panther Creek Watershed, primarily within the City of Galena Park, Texas, has faced significant flooding issues in recent years, with over 190 structures documented to have flooded during Hurricane Harvey. The area, located north of Buffalo Bayou and east of Loop 610, combines open and enclosed channel systems.
Solution
As part of the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) 2018 Bond Program, our team was contracted to evaluate and address flooding risks in the watershed. The scope of the project included:
- Creation of a comprehensive 1D/2D hydrodynamic stormwater model, using both HEC-RAS for the main open channel (G112-00-00) and a rain-on-grid 2D Infoworks ICM model for the entire watershed. These models were cross-validated to aid accuracy in flow rates and ponding behavior.
- Identification of problem areas prone to structural flooding and insights into the causes.
- Development of conceptual solutions to reduce flooding risks, including structural improvements and other flood control measures.
Benefit
The Panther Creek Flood Mitigation Study has provided critical data and insights into flooding patterns within the watershed. By leveraging advanced modeling techniques, our team delivered recommendations to mitigate flood risks. Modeling of these solution concepts is ongoing. Once fully implemented, these improvements will reduce the risk of flooding and enhance the resilience of the watershed.
