Flood processes in Canada: Regional and special aspects

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the key processes that generate floods in Canada, and a context for the other papers in this special issue – papers that provide detailed examinations of specific floods and flood-generating processes. The historical context of flooding in Canada is outlined, followed by a summary of regional aspects of floods in Canada and descriptions of the processes that generate floods in these regions, including floods generated by snowmelt, rain-on-snow and rainfall. Some flood processes that are particularly relevant, or which have been less well studied in Canada, are described: groundwater, storm surges, ice-jams and urban flooding. The issue of climate change-related trends in floods in Canada is examined, and suggested research needs regarding flood-generating processes are identified.

Cet article dresse un portrait des principaux processus essentiels à la génération des crues au Canada et conséquemment, donne le ton pour les autres articles inclus dans ce numéro spécial, dans lesquels on traite d’événements spécifiques et des processus qui en font la genèse. Le contexte historique des crues au Canada est résumé sous forme régionale, avec une description des processus spécifiques à chaque région, qui incluent entre autre les crues nivales, celles causées par des précipitations liquides sur couvert de neige et les crues pluviales. Certains processus jugés particulièrement pertinents ou qui ont été moins étudiés au Canada sont décrits : eau souterraine, surcotes associées aux tempêtes, embâcles de glace et les crues en milieu urbain. La problématique des changements climatiques au Canada est aussi examinée et des pistes de recherche liée aux processus causant les crues sont identifiées.

Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge the significant contributions of the many colleagues who have over the past decades provided the foundation for the study of floods in Canada. Carole Holt-Oduro (Alberta Environment and Parks) provided unpublished groundwater data, and Blair Birch (Town of Canmore) provided information regarding groundwater levels. The Hydrological Expertise Center of the Québec Department of Environment, Sustainable Development and Climate Change (https://www.cehq.gouv.qc.ca/, accessed 18 September 2014) was an important source of information regarding floods in Québec. We also express our thanks to the reviewers and editors for their suggestions.