Numerical Simulation of Dam-Break Flood Routing in Pumped Storage Power Stations with Multi-Conditions and Disaster Impact Analysis

With the extensive construction of pumped storage power stations, understanding the evolution, propagation laws, and factors influencing downstream dam-break floods is essential for effective disaster prevention and mitigation. This paper examines a specific pumped storage power station and develops a numerical model that integrates the dynamics of dam-break floods with the evolution of breach formation. Four dam-break scenarios were created to simulate various situations. The findings indicate that: First, peak flows increase in certain river sections due to changes in river geometry and water diversion/confluence during the evolution of dam-break floods. Second, the analysis shows that damage from a single reservoir’s dam break is less severe than that from two reservoirs. Damage varies with distance from the dam: upstream areas experience relatively minor combined dam damage, while instantaneous full dam break damage is greatest; downstream, instantaneous full dam break damage is less harmful than combined dam breaks, which are the most damaging. These variations are attributed to morphological differences and disparities in total water volume under different conditions during the dam-break flood process. This study provides a scientific basis for responding to dam-break floods and conducting flood relief efforts.