Lab 3- Planning For Potential Flooding and Storm Surges in Vancouver

In this lab, we were given a scenario in which we took on the role of a GIS analyst in Metro Vancouver and looked at areas susceptible to flooding. We presented this potential scenario through ArcGIS, by creating multiple visual maps to show areas of Metro Vancouver which are up to 8m above sea levels.

LAB 3- Remarks 

A ArcGIS map created to show the potential flooding zones of False Creek. Inserted is a potential polygon created to visualize a planned area for a new hospital for the Vancouver Downtown Area
Potential Flooding Zones In False Creek

Considering this example of the Storm Surge, we can see with the 4 maps created. It creates an analysis showing flood-plain levels in Metro Vancouver and how it affects certain points and lines on the map such as the roads, schools and the potential building site of St. Paul’s hospital in False Creek area.

An ArcGIS map created to show the roads of the lower mainland which are affected by this potential flood.
Roads Under Potential Flooding Zones in Metro Vancouver

We find that many of the areas in Pitt Meadows, West Vancouver, Richmond and Delta; and some in Southern Surrey and Downtown Vancouver are under the expected flood elevation levels and are in potential susceptible areas of flooding. However, we cans also see that in Downtown Vancouver, there has been consideration for where to build schools, as none of the schools in Vancouver are underneath the flooding zone presented.

An ArcGIS map created to visualize the elevations of Metro Vancouver. Here we highlighted the elevations underneath 8 meters as it is possible to be affected by flooding.
Elevation Map of Metro Vancouver

An ArcGIS map created to visualize the potential areas of flooding in Metro Vancouver. We buffered 1 kilometer off the coast line to visualize areas underneath the potential flooding zones.
Potential Flooding Zones

Considerations for further research 

The DEM data is presented in a raster file, as it presents where each individual pixel is represented by an elevation. However, when we change the data to polygons, we can see the changes in elevations in clearer detail. Data error could be present, as there is no correction to human error. The flood lines may be an understated height, and may go above the estimations. Lastly, the pictures taken come from LANSAT data. Therefore there may be technical errors in the heights projected as well.

Share this learning activity with others

Learning Significance

  1. Learned how to classify and symbolize DEM files; Reclassified the DEM file of Vancouver by using value to represent elevation

    Learned how to use polygon lines to create buffer lines; showed the proximity of the potential storm surge.

    Used the data present to visualize potential land for building hospitals in False Creek, Vancouver, as well as existing schools in Metro Vancouver under the potential flooding zone.