Incorporating wetlands in hydrologic and hydraulic models for flood zone delineation: An application to Durán, Ecuador

Extreme hydro-meteorological events such as hurricanes, storms and intense precipitation are already being felt in many coastal cities due to climate change causing major flood losses. It is time to implement alternative adaptation and mitigation solutions. In developed countries there is a growing appreciation of the benefits of wetlands as a flood protection strategy, however, there is still need for further research on quantifying the benefits of these solutions to justify the investment and replicate them in developing countries. Therefore, using the City of Durán, Ecuador, as a case study, this research develops an approach on how to incorporate wetlands in hydrologic and hydraulic modelling to quantify peak flows' reduction and delineate different flood zone scenarios for the city. The results of this study underline the importance of carrying out additional research in quantifying the benefits of wetlands and other ecosystem-based solutions, using hydrologic and hydraulic models, as these can prove to be efficient and sustainable strategies to mitigate flooding.