Ice jam flood risks on the rivers of the Baikal Basin

Abstract

The article presents the results of analysis and assessment of risks related to ice jams on the rivers of the Baikal Lake Basin. It also proposes the recommendations for mitigation and rational development of coastal areas. Data on catastrophic ice jam floods for more than 100 years is presented, the factors of their formation and mechanism of their movement are considered. On the basis of official statistics from expedition surveys, potentially dangerous jamming areas have been identified, and the repeatability and extent of floods have been calculated. With the help of ArcGIS package the scale of possible flooding was determined, which allowed to reveal the list of economic objects within the damage area. Specific indicators have been used to calculate the expected damage to territories, facilities and population from the flood hazard. Analysis and assessment of economic risk from the floods on the Selenga River are given. Measures to minimize risks of negative impact of floods are proposed.