Methodology of assessment of dangerous channel processes in rivers of Western Siberia

An integral assessment of the hazard of channel processes on medium, large and largest lowland rivers of Western Siberia has been carried out. The analysis is based on remote sensing data and their GIS processing, as well as information on the level of development of coastal areas. The integral hazard assessment was based on the type and degree of hazard. Three types of hazard were considered: real, potential and no hazard, which were defined taking into account the presence of anthropogenic objects and bank erosion. The degree of hazard was classified according to scour rates and the length of the bank failure front. The Ob and Irtysh Rivers show both a high level of coastal development and an increased intensity of horizontal channel deformation, and hence the level of hazard, leading to a significant risk of infrastructure failure. The Ob and Irtysh tributaries, as well as the northern river basins, have a predominantly low hazard level due to low development of the areas and low intensity of horizontal channel deformations. The results obtained allow for a more detailed assessment of the risks of channel processes, which can be used in the planning of environmental and engineering measures for the protection of the coastal territories and infrastructure of Western Siberia.

bank erosion, fluvial processes, integral assessment, hazard