River cross-section measurements are crucial for modelling ice jam floods. During these highly detailed measurements, the geometry of river valleys, surface elevations, channel slopes, and water surface gradients are carefully examined. Preparation for hydrodynamic modelling is time-consuming because such data (cross-sections) are collected during field surveys (expeditions).
To ensure the most accurate hydrodynamic modelling, it is necessary to maintain sufficient cross-section density—at least every 500 meters in populated areas and every 1000 meters in unpopulated regions. Particular attention is given to the most hazardous locations where the risk of ice jam formation is highest. Bridge piers, sharp river bends, and islands are the primary areas where ice jams frequently form. Bridges play a critical role in the ice jam formation process; therefore, the technical characteristics of selected bridges (6 on the Lėvuo River and 1 on the Mūša River) were assessed to integrate the collected data into the hydrodynamic model.
On the Mūša River, 25 cross-sections were measured over a 15 km stretch (from Pantakonys to the Ustukiai Bridge), while 50 cross-sections were measured on the Lėvuo River over a 20.5 km stretch (from Pamarliškės to Skaistgiriai). Additionally, 5 cross-sections were measured in the Sanžilė Canal, from the Lėvuo River to the second Bernatonys Bridge.
These comprehensive data allow for more accurate predictions of potential ice jam floods and facilitate effective management measures to reduce the risks associated with these phenomena.
The Project is funded by the European Union’s Interreg VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme 2021–2027
More information: https://www.lei.lt/en/projektas/icereg/
