Correlation models in flood risk analysis

Statistical dependence among random hydraulic variables generally stems from a common meteorological cause. Usually, this dependence increases the probability of occurrence of floods. Therefore, in many (potential) applications in flood risk analysis there is a need for techniques that properly describe the statistical dependence among random variables. This study makes an inventory of existing bivariate correlation models as available from international literature and/or 'Dutch practice' in the design and testing of flood defence structures. Differences in correlation structures are described and quantified. Subsequently, their practical applicability is tested in two case studies. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.