Chapter 2 Hydrology

2-1 Introduction
This chapter presents WSDOT’s procedures and acceptable methodologies for hydraulics
and hydrologic analyses for transportation hydraulic features. The procedures and
methodologies presented in this chapter are based on a basic understanding of the science
of hydrology and its principles. Additionally, the PEO and Stream Team (defined in Chapter
7-1) should be familiar with the regulations and requirements of various state and federal
agencies that regulate water-related construction, as they may be applicable to proposed
improvements.
WSDOT uses several methods for determining runoff rates and/or volumes. However,
documented reporting and high-water mark observations shall be used wherever
possible to calibrate or validate the results of the below statistical and empirical
methods. Where calculated results vary from on-site observations, further investigation
may be required. The following methods are discussed in detail in subsequent sections
of this chapter:
• Rational Method
• Santa Barbara Urban Hydrograph (SBUH) Method
• Continuous-Simulation Hydrologic Model (MGSFlood)
• Published streamflow record
• United States Geological Survey (USGS) regional regression equations
• Existing hydrologic studies
• Documented reporting
The PEO and Stream Team shall give serious consideration to documented testimony of
long-time residents. Independent calculations shall be made to verify this type of reporting
and observations. The information furnished by residents of the area shall include, but not
be limited to, the following:

• Dates of past flood events

• High-water marks
• Amount of drift
• Any changes in the channel that may have occurred (i.e., streambed stability—is the
channel widening, migrating, or meandering)
• Estimated streamflow velocity
• Description of flooding characteristics between normal flow to flood stage
• High-water mark observations

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High-water marks can be used to reconstruct discharge from past flood events on existing
structures or on the bank of a stream or ditch. However, caution shall be applied if the high-
water marks are from a similar period (e.g., bathymetry/topography similar, flood event did
not inundate nearby culverts or bridges causing backwater, there was not significant
accumulation of debris, etc.). These marks, along with other data, can be used to determine
discharge by methods discussed in Chapter 3 or Chapter 4.
Additional hydrologic procedures are available including complex computer models, which
can give the PEO and Stream Team accurate flood flow estimates. The State Hydraulics
Office shall be contacted before a procedure other than those listed above is used in a
hydrologic analysis.
The State Hydraulics Office and RHE require one of the first six methods listed above.
Exceptions will be permitted if adequate justification is provided and approved by the RHE.
Section 2-2 discusses how to select the appropriate method of assessing hydrology for a
given site. Sections 2-3 and 2-5 discuss other important considerations, including the
size of the basin and things to consider in cold climate areas. The remainder of the
chapter describes each of the methods in more detail, followed by some examples in
Section 2-12.

2-2 Selecting a Method

The first step in performing a hydrologic analysis is to determine the most appropriate
method. The methods for determining runoff rates and volumes are summarized below,
and Table 2-1 provides a comparison table. Subsequent sections provide a more detailed
description of each method. Additional guidance will be provided in future revisions to
the Hydraulics Manual.
• Rational Method (Kuichling 1889): This method is used when peak discharges for
basins up to 200 acres must be determined. This method does not provide a time
series or the flow volume. It is a simple and commonly used method, especially when
the basin is primarily impervious. The Rational Method is appropriate for culvert
design, pavement drainage design, and storm sewer design. It is also appropriate for
some stormwater facility designs in eastern Washington.
• Santa Barbara Urban Hydrograph (SBUH) Method (Stubchaer 1975): This method is
used when estimation of a runoff hydrograph is necessary. The SBUH Method also
can be used when retention and detention must be evaluated. The SBUH Method
can be used for drainage areas up to 1,000 acres. The SBUH Method can be used for
stormwater facility designs in eastern Washington and for culvert and storm sewer
designs through the entire state.
• Continuous-simulation hydrologic model: For western Washington, calibrated
continuous-simulation hydrologic models, based on the Hydrological Simulation
Program-Fortran (HSPF) routine, have been created for computing peak discharges
and runoff volumes. These models are used for stormwater facility designs in
western Washington and estimating seasonal runoff for temporary stream
diversions. WSDOT uses the continuous-simulation hydrologic model MGSFlood

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when calculating runoff treatment rates and volumes for stormwater facility design.
Programs other than MGSFlood may be used if approved by the State Hydraulics
Office.
• Published flow record: This method shall be used whenever appropriate stream
discharge gage data are available. This is a collection of data rather than a predictive
analysis like the other methods listed. USGS, cities, counties, and other agencies
gather stream discharge data on a regular basis. Collected data can be analyzed
statistically to predict flood flows and are more accurate than simulated flows.
Published flow records are most appropriate for culvert and bridge design.
• USGS regional regression equations (Mastin et al. 2016): This method can be used
when no appropriate stream gage data are available. It is a set of regression
equations that were developed using data from stream flow gaging stations. The
regression equations are simple to use but are less accurate than published flow
records. USGS regression equations are appropriate for culvert and bridge design
and are intended for use in rural and predominantly undeveloped basin areas. PEOs
and Stream Teams shall consult the USGS regression equation documentation for
limitations when computing flows in urban basins (basins with greater than 5 percent
impervious area).
• Existing hydrologic studies: This method uses existing studies or models of the
watershed of interest, including Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
flood insurance studies, smaller urban drainages, citywide or countywide drainage
master plans, and calibrated HSPF models. Often these values are accurate because
they were developed from an in-depth analysis. Flood flow estimates can be derived
from FEMA and other approved sources, including the State Hydraulics Office.
Obtained data may be appropriate for culvert and bridge design.
• Basin transfer of gage data with regional USGS equations: When a project is located
on an ungaged stream, but a stream is nearby with a substantial flow record, it is
possible to extrapolate flows from one basin to the other, provided that certain
criteria are met. The watersheds of the gaged and ungaged streams must have
similar geology and soils, elevation range, vegetation, and canopy cover, and must be
roughly the same size. The concept is simple (see Equation 2-1):

Qungaged = Qgaged(Aungaged/Agaged) (2-1)

where:
Q = discharge
A = drainage area
USGS offers a spreadsheet called Flood Q Tools that includes the Flood Q Ratio Tool, which
incorporates weighting of the ratio-based discharge. The weighting function uses the
appropriate regional regression equation. Flood Q Tools can be found on the WSDOT
Hydraulics & Hydrology website.

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The Flood Q Ratio Tool puts bounds on the ungaged site—it must be within 50 percent
of the area of the gaged basin and on the same stream. However, if no other tools are
available, it may be used to estimate flows on a different stream, provided that all other
parameters (basin size, soils, elevation, etc.) are similar. This tool also has the
functionality of using the regression-based weighting of the Q derived from the area
ratio. Additional inputs for this technique are mean annual precipitation and percent
canopy cover (for Regions 1 and 2) in the ungaged basin.
Table 2-1 Methods for Estimating Runoff Rates and Volumes
Method Assumptions Data Needs
Rational • Basins <200 acres • Time of concentration (minutes)
• Time of concentration <1 hour • Drainage area (acreage)
• Storm duration less than or equal to • Runoff coefficient (C values)
concentration time • Rainfall intensity (use m, n values
• Rainfall uniformly distributed in time and space to calculate inches/hour)
• Runoff is primarily overland flow
• Negligible channel storage (such as detention
ponds, channels with significant volume, and
floodplain storage)
Santa Barbara • Rainfall uniformly distributed in time and space • Curve number (CN values)
Urban • Runoff is based on surface flow • Drainage area (acreage)
Hydrograph • Small to medium basins <1,000 acres • Digital grid-based precipitation
• Urban type area (pavement usually suffices) values in the WSDOT GIS, or
• Regional storms (eastern Washington) a National Oceanic and
• Short-duration storm for stormwater conveyance Atmospheric
• Long-duration storm for stormwater volume Administration Atlas or isopluvials
• Type 1A storm (western Washington) a
stormwater conveyance

Continuous- • HSPF routine for stormwater BMPs for flow • Drainage basin area (acreage)
simulation control facilities, such as detention and infiltration • Land cover (impervious,
hydrologic ponds, and water quality facilities, such as vegetation), soils (hydrologic
model vegetated filter strips and bioswales, soil group, saturated)
(western • Elevations below 1,500 feet • Slope
Washington) • Seasonal flow for streams • Climatic region (mean annual
precipitation)
Published flow • Basins with stream gage data • 10 or more years of gaged flood
record • Appropriate station and/or generalized skew records (contact the State
coefficient relationship applied Hydraulics Office for additional
guidance)
USGS regional • Appropriate for culvert and bridge design • 2016 regional equations
regression • Midsized and large basins • Annual precipitation (inches)
equations • Simple but lack accuracy of flow records for basins • Drainage area (square miles)
with more than 5% total impervious area • Area-weighted forest canopy
(percent)

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Method Assumptions Data Needs

Existing • Appropriate for culvert and bridge design • Available from FEMA or local
hydrologic • Midsized and large watersheds floodplain or stormwater
studies • Report accuracy varies so confirm level of accuracy administrative agency—typically
with entity that the report derives from the city or county (however, this
method is not used for culverts or
bridges unless calibrated)
Notes:
HSPF = Hydrological Simulation Program-Fortran.
a. The Highway Runoff Manual provides detailed guidance for design storms.

2-3 Drainage Basin

Drainage basins are the areas that contribute runoff to a point of interest such as catch
basins, inlets, culverts, drainage ditches, and stormwater BMPs. These areas may include
both on-site and off-site runoff and areas that extend outside of WSDOT ROW and beyond
the project.

The size of the drainage basin is one of the most important parameters regardless of which
method of hydrologic analysis is used.

2-4 Site Basins

To determine the basin area, use the StreamStats web application, USGS quadrangle maps,
or ArcMap/GIS Workbench data including LiDAR and NHD watersheds. These tools must
be used with caution in urban areas and all subbasins shall be delineated by variation in soil
and drainage characteristics.

All basins shall be field-verified to the maximum extent feasible. Select the best available
topographic map (GIS or other approved mapping software) or best available data that
cover the entire area contributing surface runoff to the point of interest. In areas under
urban influence, flow paths do not always follow topography because of the presence of
streets, buildings, and enclosed drainage (catch basins/pipes). In most cases, drainage
patterns and catchment areas cannot be deduced from an in-office terrain analysis. In
urban areas query the local stormwater management agency for their infrastructure
maps. Some communities have data available in shapefile format or as PDFs; others may
have a web-based parcel mapping tool that includes stormwater. Field verification of
how the impervious areas and pervious areas are connected or disconnected to the flow
paths may be required.

2-5 Cold Climate Considerations

Snowmelt and rain on snow is a complicated process and can result in greater runoff
rates. There are two parts to this section: Section 2-5.1 focuses on calculating the
impacts of snowmelt and Section 2-5.2 provides additional considerations for PEOs
when evaluating the impacts of snowmelt in a project location.

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2-5.1 Calculating Snowmelt

When the project is listed as a mountainous route, per the WSDOT Highway Log, or is over
an elevation of 1,500 feet, the project shall consider snowmelt impacts. The PEO shall apply
the method described in this section and consult the RHE, the local Maintenance Office, the
local PEO, and historical data. Then in the hydraulic report, the PEO shall describe in detail
what value (if any) was determined to most accurately represent snowmelt at a project
location.
The first question PEOs shall consider is whether snowmelt effects will impact a project.
In particular, PEOs shall check the snow record to determine the maximum monthly
average snow depths for the project location. Snow depths can be found at the
following websites or by contacting the RHE or State Hydraulics Office:
• Washington Climate Summaries
• Washington Snow Map
The following equation uses a factor of 5, developed from the energy budget equation by
the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and available snow for eastern
Washington cities to convert depth of snow to snow water equivalent. This amount, up to
1.5 inches, shall be added to the 100-year, 24-hour precipitation value when designing for
flood conditions for rain on snow or snowmelt. The equation below shall be applied only
when the average daily snow depth within the month at a project location meets or exceeds
2 inches:
𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠 𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑ℎ (𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚 𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚ℎ [𝑖𝑖𝑖𝑖𝑖𝑖ℎ𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 ⁄ 𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑])
𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆 ⁄𝑊𝑊𝑊𝑊𝑊𝑊𝑊𝑊𝑊𝑊 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 = 5
(2-2)

The snow/water equivalent added shall not be greater than 1.5 inches regardless of the
results.

2-5.2 Additional Considerations

Regardless of snowmelt impacting a project site, PEOs shall consider the following issues to
provide adequate road drainage and prevent flood damage to downstream properties:
• Roadside drainage: During the design phase, consideration shall be given to how roadside
snow will accumulate and possibly block and erode inlets and other flow paths for water
present during the thawing cycle. If it is determined that inlets could be blocked by the
accumulation of plowed snow, consideration shall be given to an alternate course of
travel for runoff. This will help prevent the water ponding that sometimes occurs in
certain areas because of snowmelt and rain not having an open area in which to drain off
the roadway. This may require coordination with the WSDOT Maintenance Office.
• Retention ponds: When detention or retention ponds are located near the roadway, the
emergency spillway shall be located outside of any snow storage areas that could block
overflow passage, or an alternative flow route shall be designated. This may require
coordination with the WSDOT Maintenance Office.

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• Frozen ground: Frozen ground coupled with snowmelt or rain on snow can cause
unusually adverse conditions. These combined runoff sources are generally reflected in
the USGS regression equations and in the historical gage records. No corrections or
adjustments need to be made to these hydrology methods for frozen ground or
snowmelt. For smaller basins, the SBUH Method and Rational Method are used to
determine peak volume and peak runoff rates. The curve number (CN) value for the
SBUH Method and the runoff coefficient for the Rational Method do not need to be
increased to account for frozen ground in snowy or frozen areas as consideration has
been given to this in the normal precipitation amounts and in deriving the snowmelt
equation.

2-6 Rational Method

This section presents a description of the Rational Method.

2-6.1 General

The Rational Method is used to estimate peak flows for small drainage areas, which can be
either natural or developed. The Rational Method can be used for culvert design, pavement
drainage design, storm sewer design, and some eastern Washington stormwater facility
design. The greatest accuracy is obtained for areas smaller than 100 acres and for
developed conditions with large portions of impervious surface (pavement, roof tops, etc.).
Basins up to 200 acres may be evaluated using the rational formula (Equations 2-3 and 2-4);
however, results for large basins often do not properly account for effects of infiltration and
thus are less accurate. PEOs should never perform a Rational Method analysis on a mostly
undeveloped basin that is larger than the lower limit specified for the USGS regression
equations, because the USGS regression equations will yield a more accurate flow estimate
for that size of basin. The formula for the Rational Method is as follows:
𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶
𝑄𝑄 = (2-3)
𝐾𝐾𝐶𝐶
where:
Q = runoff in cubic feet per second (cfs)
C = runoff coefficient in dimensionless units
I = rainfall intensity in inches per hour
A = drainage area in acres
Kc = conversion factor of 1 for English units

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When several subareas within a drainage basin have different runoff coefficients, the
rational formula can be modified as follows:
𝐼𝐼Σ𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶
𝑄𝑄 = (2-4)
𝐾𝐾𝐶𝐶
where:
𝛴𝛴𝛴𝛴𝛴𝛴 = 𝐶𝐶1𝑥𝑥𝐴𝐴1 + 𝐶𝐶2 𝑥𝑥𝐴𝐴2 + ⋯ + 𝐶𝐶𝑛𝑛 𝑥𝑥𝐴𝐴𝑛𝑛

Hydrologic information calculated by the Rational Method shall be submitted as a

calculation package within the hydraulic report using the spreadsheet found on WSDOT’s
hydraulics and hydrology webpage under tools, templates, and links or other similar forms
approved by the State Hydraulics Office that best describe the project’s hydraulic
information.
This spreadsheet contains all the required input information and the resulting discharge. The
description of each area shall be identified by name or station so the area may be easily
located. A plan sheet or map showing the delineation of these areas shall be included with
the hydraulic report along with the appropriate calculations.

2-6.2 Runoff Coefficients

The runoff coefficient “C” represents the percentage of rainfall that becomes runoff. The
Rational Method implies that this ratio is fixed for a given drainage basin. In reality, the
coefficient may vary with respect to prior wetting and seasonal conditions. The use of an
average coefficient for various surface types is quite common, and it is assumed to stay
constant through the duration of the rainstorm.
When considering frozen ground, PEOs shall review Section 2-5.2, third bullet. In a high
growth rate area, runoff factors shall be projected that will be characteristic of developed
conditions 20 years after project construction. Even though local stormwater practices
(where they exist) may reduce potential increases in runoff, prudent engineering should still
make allowances for predictable growth patterns.
The coefficients in Table 2-2 are applicable for peak storms of 10-year frequency. Less
frequent, higher-intensity storms will require the use of higher coefficients because
infiltration and other losses have a proportionally smaller effect on runoff. Generally, when
designing for a 25-year frequency, the coefficient shall be increased by 10 percent; when
designing for a 50-year frequency, the coefficient shall be increased by 20 percent; and
when designing for a 100-year frequency, the coefficient shall be increased by 25 percent.
The runoff coefficient shall not be increased above 0.95, unless approved by the RHE.
Higher values may be appropriate for steeply sloped areas and/or longer return periods,
because in these cases infiltration and other losses have a proportionally smaller effect on
runoff.

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Table 2-2 Runoff Coefficients for the Rational Method: 10-Year Return Frequency
Rolling
Cover Type Flat (2%–10%) Hilly (Over 10%)
Pavement and roofs 0.90 0.90 0.90
Earth shoulders 0.50 0.50 0.50
Drives and walks 0.75 0.80 0.85
Gravel pavement 0.50 0.55 0.60
City business areas 0.80 0.85 0.85
Suburban residential 0.25 0.35 0.40
Single-family residential 0.30 0.40 0.50
Multi units, detached 0.40 0.50 0.60
Multi units, attached 0.60 0.65 0.70
Lawns, very sandy soil 0.05 0.07 0.10
Lawns, sandy soil 0.10 0.15 0.20
Lawns, heavy soil 0.17 0.22 0.35
Grass shoulders 0.25 0.25 0.25
Side slopes, earth 0.60 0.60 0.60
Side slopes, turf 0.30 0.30 0.30
Median areas, turf 0.25 0.30 0.30
Cultivated land, clay, and loam 0.50 0.55 0.60
Cultivated land, sand, and gravel 0.25 0.30 0.35
Industrial areas, light 0.50 0.70 0.80
Industrial areas, heavy 0.60 0.80 0.90
Parks and cemeteries 0.10 0.15 0.25
Playgrounds 0.20 0.25 0.30
Woodland and forests 0.10 0.15 0.20
Meadows and pasture land 0.25 0.30 0.35
Pasture with frozen ground 0.40 0.45 0.50
Unimproved areas 0.10 0.20 0.30

2-6.3 Time of Concentration

Time of concentration (Tc) is defined as the time for runoff to travel from the hydraulically
most distant point of the watershed to a point of interest in the watershed. Travel time (Tt)
is the time water takes to travel from one location to another in a watershed. Tt is a
component of Tc, which is computed by summing all the travel times for consecutive
components of the drainage flow path. This concept assumes that rainfall is applied at a
constant rate over a drainage basin, which would eventually produce a constant peak rate of
runoff.

Actual precipitation does not fall at a constant rate. A precipitation event usually begins with
less rainfall intensity, builds to peak intensity, and eventually tapers down to no rainfall.
Because rainfall intensity is variable, the time of concentration is included in the Rational
Method so that the PEO can determine the proper rainfall intensity to apply across the

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basin. The intensity that shall be used for designing is the highest intensity that will occur
with the entire basin contributing runoff to the flow rate location being studied. This may be
a much lower intensity than the maximum intensity because of it taking several minutes
before the entire basin is contributing flow; the maximum intensity lasts for a much shorter
time, so the rainfall intensity that creates the greatest runoff is less than the maximum by
the time the entire basin is contributing flow.
Most drainage basins consist of different types of ground covers and conveyance systems
that flow must navigate. These are referred to as flow segments. It is common for a basin to
have overland and open-channel flow segments. Urban drainage basins often have flow
segments that flow through a storm sewer pipe in addition to overland and open-channel
flow segments. A travel time (the amount of time required for flow to move through a flow
segment) must be computed for each flow segment. The time of concentration is equal to
the sum of all the flow segment travel times.
For a few drainage areas, a unique situation occurs where the time of concentration that
produces the largest amount of runoff is less than the time of concentration for the entire
basin. This can occur when two or more subbasins have dramatically different types of
cover (i.e., different runoff coefficients). The most common case would be a large, paved
area together with a long, narrow strip of natural area. In this case, the PEO shall check the
runoff produced by the paved area alone to determine if this scenario would cause a greater
peak runoff rate than the peak runoff rate produced when both land segments are
contributing flow based on a shorter time of concentration for the pavement-only area. The
scenario that produces the greatest runoff shall be used, even if the entire basin is not
contributing flow to this peak runoff rate.
The procedure for determining the time of concentration for overland flow, which was
developed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS, formerly known as the
Soil Conservation Service [SCS]), is described below. It is sensitive to slope, type of ground
cover, and channel size. If the total time of concentration is less than 5 minutes, a minimum
of 5 minutes shall be used as the duration (see Section 2-6.4 for details). Table 2-3 lists
ground cover coefficients.
The time of concentration can be calculated as in Equations 2-5 and 2-6:
𝐿𝐿 𝐿𝐿1.5 (2-5)
𝑇𝑇𝑡𝑡 = =
𝐾𝐾√𝑆𝑆 𝐾𝐾√∆𝐻𝐻
𝑇𝑇𝐶𝐶 = 𝑇𝑇𝑡𝑡1 + 𝑇𝑇𝑡𝑡2 + ⋯ + 𝑇𝑇𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡

where:
Tt = travel time of flow segment in minutes (2-6)
Tc = time of concentration in minutes
L = length of segment in feet
ΔH = elevation change across segment in feet
K = ground cover coefficient in feet/minute
S = slope of segment ∆𝐻𝐻�∆𝐿𝐿 in feet

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Table 2-3 Ground Cover Coefficients

Type of Cover Flow depth (inches) K (feet/min.)
Forest with heavy ground cover -- 150
Minimum tillage cultivation -- 280
Short pasture grass or lawn -- 420
Nearly bare ground -- 600
Small roadside ditch with grass -- 900
Paved area -- 1,200
4 1,500
Gutter flow 6 2,400
8 3,100
12-inch diameter 3,000
Storm sewers a
18-inch diameter 3,900
24-inch diameter 4,700
12 1,100
Open-channel flow (n = 0.040) Narrow channel 24 1,800
(w/d =1) 48 2,800
12 2,000
Open-channel flow (n = 0.040) wide Channel 24 3,100
(w/d =9) 48 5,000

Notes:
-- = not applicable
a = these values are for RCP, coefficient must be adjusted for different materials
w/d = width/depth ratio

2-6.4 Rainfall Intensity

After the appropriate storm frequency for the design has been determined (see Chapter 1)
and the time of concentration has been calculated, the rainfall intensity can be calculated.
Rainfall intensity is the average of the most intense period enveloped by the time of
concentration and is not instantaneous rainfall. Rainfall intensity, duration, and frequency
(IDF) curves can be used to estimate rainfall intensity. Regional IDF curves are available
from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Curves for Washington
State can be found on NOAA’s Precipitation Frequency Data Server.
PEOs shall never use a time of concentration that is less than 5 minutes for intensity
calculations, even when the calculated time of concentration is less than 5 minutes. The 5-
minute limit is based on two ideas:
• Shorter times give unrealistic intensities. Many intensity-duration-frequency curves
are constructed from curve-smoothing equations and not based on actual data
collected at intervals shorter than 15 to 30 minutes. Making the curves shorter
involves extrapolation, which is not reliable.

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• Rainfall takes time to generate runoff within a defined basin, thus it would not be
realistic to have less than 5 minutes for a time of concentration.
Rainfall intensity is the average of the most intense period enveloped by the time of
concentration and is not instantaneous rainfall. Equation 2-7 calculates rainfall intensity.
𝑚𝑚 (2-7)
𝐼𝐼 =
(𝑇𝑇𝑐𝑐 ) 𝑛𝑛

where:
I = rainfall intensity in inches per hour
Tc = time of concentration in minutes
m and n = coefficients in dimensionless units (Table 2-4)

The coefficients (m and n) have been determined for all major cities for the 2-, 5-, 10-, 25-,
50-, and 100-year MRI. The coefficients listed in Table 2-4 are accurate from 5-minute
durations to 1,440-minute durations (24 hours).
The PEO, with RHE assistance, shall interpolate between the two or three nearest cities
listed in Table 2-4 when working on a project in an unlisted location. Consult with the State
Hydraulics Office if help is needed with interpolating which values to use.

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Table 2-4 Index to Rainfall Coefficients

2-Year MRI 5-Year MRI 10-Year MRI 25-Year MRI 50-Year MRI 100-Year MRI
Location m n m n m n m n m n m n
Aberdeen and Hoquiam 5.10 0.488 6.22 0.488 7.06 0.487 8.17 0.487 9.02 0.487 9.86 0.487
Bellingham 4.29 0.549 5.59 0.555 6.59 0.559 7.90 0.562 8.89 0.563 9.88 0.565
Bremerton 3.79 0.480 4.84 0.487 5.63 0.490 6.68 0.494 7.47 0.496 8.26 0.498
Centralia and Chehalis 3.63 0.506 4.85 0.518 5.76 0.524 7.00 0.530 7.92 0.533 8.86 0.537
Clarkston and Colfax 5.02 0.628 6.84 0.633 8.24 0.635 10.07 0.638 11.45 0.639 12.81 0.639
Colville 3.48 0.558 5.44 0.593 6.98 0.610 9.07 0.626 10.65 0.635 12.26 0.642
Ellensburg 2.89 0.590 5.18 0.631 7.00 0.649 9.43 0.664 11.30 0.672 13.18 0.678
Everett 3.69 0.556 5.20 0.570 6.31 0.575 7.83 0.582 8.96 0.585 10.07 0.586
Forks 4.19 0.410 5.12 0.412 5.84 0.413 6.76 0.414 7.47 0.415 8.18 0.416
Hoffstadt Cr. (SR 504) 3.96 0.448 5.21 0.462 6.16 0.469 7.44 0.476 8.41 0.480 9.38 0.484
Hoodsport 4.47 0.428 5.44 0.428 6.17 0.427 7.15 0.428 7.88 0.428 8.62 0.428
Kelso and Longview 4.25 0.507 5.50 0.515 6.45 0.509 7.74 0.524 8.70 0.526 9.67 0.529
Leavenworth 3.04 0.530 4.12 0.542 5.62 0.575 7.94 0.594 9.75 0.606 11.08 0.611
Metaline Falls 3.36 0.527 4.90 0.553 6.09 0.566 7.45 0.570 9.29 0.592 10.45 0.591
Moses Lake 2.61 0.583 5.05 0.634 6.99 0.655 9.58 0.671 11.61 0.681 13.63 0.688
Mt. Vernon 3.92 0.542 5.25 0.552 6.26 0.557 7.59 0.561 8.60 0.564 9.63 0.567
Naselle 4.57 0.432 5.67 0.441 6.14 0.432 7.47 0.443 8.05 0.440 8.91 0.436
Olympia 3.82 0.466 4.86 0.472 5.62 0.474 6.63 0.477 7.40 0.478 8.17 0.480
Omak 3.04 0.583 5.06 0.618 6.63 0.633 8.74 0.647 10.35 0.654 11.97 0.660
Pasco and Kennewick 2.89 0.590 5.18 0.631 7.00 0.649 9.43 0.664 11.30 0.672 13.18 0.678
Port Angeles 4.31 0.530 5.42 0.531 6.25 0.531 7.37 0.532 8.19 0.532 9.03 0.532
Poulsbo 3.83 0.506 4.98 0.513 5.85 0.516 7.00 0.519 7.86 0.521 8.74 0.523
Queets 4.26 0.422 5.18 0.423 5.87 0.423 6.79 0.423 7.48 0.423 8.18 0.424
Seattle 3.56 0.515 4.83 0.531 5.62 0.530 6.89 0.539 7.88 0.545 8.75 0.5454
Sequim 3.50 0.551 5.01 0.569 6.16 0.577 7.69 0.585 8.88 0.590 10.04 0.593
Snoqualmie Pass 3.61 0.417 4.81 0.435 6.56 0.459 7.72 0.459 8.78 0.461 10.21 0.476
Spokane 3.41 0.556 5.43 0.591 6.98 0.609 9.09 0.626 10.68 0.635 12.33 0.643
Stevens Pass 4.73 0.462 6.09 0.470 8.19 0.500 8.53 0.484 10.61 0.499 12.45 0.513
Tacoma 3.57 0.516 4.78 0.527 5.70 0.533 6.93 0.539 7.86 0.542 8.79 0.545
Vancouver 2.92 0.477 4.05 0.496 4.92 0.506 6.06 0.515 6.95 0.520 7.82 0.525
Walla Walla 3.33 0.569 5.54 0.609 7.30 0.627 9.67 0.645 11.45 0.653 13.28 0.660
Wenatchee 3.15 0.535 4.88 0.566 6.19 0.579 7.94 0.592 9.32 0.600 10.68 0.605
Yakima 3.86 0.608 5.86 0.633 7.37 0.644 9.40 0.654 10.93 0.659 12.47 0.663
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2-7 Single-Event Hydrograph Method: Santa Barbara Urban Hydrograph

The SBUH Method is best suited for WSDOT projects where conveyance systems are being
designed and for some stormwater treatment facilities in eastern Washington. The SBUH
Method was developed to calculate flow occurring from surface runoff and is most accurate
for drainage basins smaller than 100 acres, although it can be used for drainage basins up to
1,000 acres. The SBUH Method shall not be used where groundwater flow can be a major
contributor to the total flow.
An SBUH analysis requires the PEO to understand certain characteristics of the project site,
such as drainage patterns, predicted rainfall, soil type, area to be covered with impervious
surfaces, type of drainage conveyance, and—for eastern Washington—the flow-control
BMPs that are to be provided. The physical characteristics of the site and the design storm
determine the magnitude, volume, and duration of the runoff hydrograph. Other factors,
such as the conveyance characteristics of channel or pipe, merging tributary flows, and type
of BMPs, will alter the shape and magnitude of the hydrograph. The key elements of a
single-event hydrograph analysis are listed below and described in more detail in this
section:

• Design storm hyetograph

• Runoff parameters
• Hydrograph synthesis
• Hydrograph routing
• Hydrograph summation
Several commercially available computer programs include the SBUH Method. See
Chapter 1.

2-7.1 Design Storm Hyetograph

The SBUH Method requires the input of a rainfall distribution or a design storm
hyetograph. The design storm hyetograph is rainfall depth versus time for a given design
storm frequency and duration. For this application, it is presented as a dimensionless
table of unit rainfall depth (incremental rainfall depth for each time interval divided by
the total rainfall depth) versus time. The type of design storm used depends on the
project locations as noted below:
• Eastern Washington: For projects in eastern Washington, the design storms are
usually the short-duration storm for conveyance design and the regional storm for
volume-based stormwater facilities. (Design storms are discussed further in the
Highway Runoff Manual.) However, occasionally with large basins and long time of
concentration periods, the long duration regional (or Type 1A) storm will produce
larger flow (Qs).

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• Western Washington: For projects in western Washington, the design storm for
conveyance is the Type 1A storm. For designs other than conveyance, see
Section 2-8 for a description of the Continuous-Simulation Method.
Along with the design storm, precipitation depths are needed and shall be selected for
the city nearest to the project site using PRISM data available from ArcGIS Workbench
as the primary data source for the most accurate results from its interpolation
methodology, followed by using an isopluvial map that clearly identifies the location
within the map contours (see Figure 2-1).

2-7.2 Runoff Parameters

The SBUH Method requires input of parameters that describe physical drainage basin
characteristics. These parameters provide the basis from which the runoff hydrograph is
developed. This section describes the three key parameters (contributing drainage basin
areas, runoff CN, and runoff time of concentration) that, when combined with the rainfall
hyetograph in the SBUH Method, develop the runoff hydrograph.
The proper selection and delineation of the contributing drainage basin areas to the BMP or
structure of interest is required in the hydrograph analysis. The contributing basin area(s)
used shall be relatively homogeneous in land use and soil type. If the entire contributing
basin is similar in these aspects, the basin can be analyzed as a single area. If significant
differences exist within a given contributing drainage basin, it must be divided into subbasin
areas of similar land use and soil characteristics. Hydrographs shall then be computed for
each subbasin area and summed to form the total runoff hydrograph for the basin.
Contributing drainage basins larger than 100 acres shall be divided into subbasins. By
dividing large basins into smaller subbasins and then combining calculated flows, the timing
aspect of the generated hydrograph can be made more accurate.

2-7.2.1 Curve Numbers

The NRCS has conducted studies into the runoff characteristics of various land types. The
NRCS developed relationships between land use, soil type, vegetation cover, interception,
infiltration, surface storage, and runoff. The relationships have been characterized by a
single runoff coefficient called a curve number. CNs are chosen to depict average
conditions—neither dry nor saturated. The PEO shall use the CNs listed in the Highway
Runoff Manual, the NRCS website, or the GIS Workbench.
The factors that contribute to the CN value are known as the soil-cover complex. The soil-
cover complexes have been assigned to one of four hydrologic soil groups according to their
runoff characteristics. These soil groups are labeled Types A, B, C, and D, with Type A
generating the least amount of runoff and Type D generating the most. The Highway Runoff
Manual shows the hydrologic soil groups of most soils in Washington State. The different
soil groups can be described as follows:

• Type A: Soils having high infiltration rates, even when thoroughly wetted, and
consisting chiefly of deep, well drained to excessively drained sands or gravels.
These soils have a high rate of water transmission.

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• Type B: Soils having moderate infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted and
consisting chiefly of moderately fine to moderately coarse textures. These soils have
a moderate rate of water transmission.
• Type C: Soils having slow infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted and consisting
chiefly of soils with a layer that impedes downward movement of water or soils with
moderately fine to fine textures. These soils have a slow rate of water transmission.
• Type D: Soils having very slow infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted and
consisting chiefly of clay soils with a high swelling potential, soils with a permanent
high water table, soils with a hardpan or clay layer at or near the surface, and shallow
soils over bedrock or other nearly impervious material. These soils have a very slow
rate of water transmission and comprise areas such as wetlands.
The HQ Materials Laboratory can also perform a soil analysis to determine the soil group for
the project site. This shall be done only if an NRCS soils map cannot be located for the
county in which the site is located, the available SCS map does not characterize the soils at
the site (many NRCS maps show “urban land” in highway ROWs and other heavily urbanized
areas where the soil properties are uncertain), or there is reason to doubt the accuracy of
the information on the NRCS map for the particular site.
When performing an SBUH analysis for a basin, it is common to encounter more than one
soil type. If the soil types are similar (within 20 CN points), a weighted average can be used.
If the soil types are significantly different, the basin shall be separated into smaller subbasins
(previously described for different land uses). Pervious ground cover and impervious ground
cover should always be analyzed separately. If the computer program StormShed3D is used
for the analysis, pervious and impervious land segments will automatically be separated, but
the PEO will have to combine and manually weigh similar pervious soil types for a basin.
2-7.2.2 Antecedent Moisture Condition
The moisture condition in a soil at the onset of a storm event, referred to as the
antecedent moisture condition (AMC), has a significant effect on both the volume and
rate of runoff.
Recognizing this, the SCS developed three AMCs as described below:
• AMC I: soils are dry but not to the wilting point
• AMC II: average conditions
• AMC III: heavy rainfall, or light rainfall and low temperatures, has occurred within
the last 5 days, and soil is near saturated or saturated
Table 2-5 gives seasonal rainfall limits for the three AMCs. These derive from the
amount of rainfall in any 5 days.

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Table 2-5 Total 5-Day Antecedent Rainfall

Antecedent Moisture Dormant Season Growing Season
Condition (inches) (inches)
I Less than 0.5 Less than 1.4
II 0.5–1.1 1.4–2.1
III Over 1.1 Over 2.1

The CN values generally listed are for AMC II; if the AMC falls into either group I or III, the
CN value will need to be modified to represent project site conditions. The Highway Runoff
Manual provides further information regarding when the AMC shall be considered and
conversions for the CN for different AMCs for the case of Ia = 0.2S. For other conversions,
see the National Engineering Handbook (NRCS 2010).
2-7.2.3 Time of Concentration
Time of concentration (Tc) is defined as the time for runoff to travel from the hydraulically
most distant point of the watershed to a point of interest in the watershed. Travel time (Tt)
is the time water takes to travel from one location to another in a watershed. Tt is a
component of Tc, which is computed by summing all the travel times for consecutive
components of the drainage flow path. While this section starts the same as Section 2-6.3,
the analysis described in this section is more detailed because water traveling through a
basin is classified by flow type.
The different flow types include sheet flow; shallow, concentrated flow; open-channel
flow; or some combination of these. Classifying flow type is best determined by field
inspection and using the parameters described below:
• Sheet flow is flow over plane surfaces. It usually occurs in the headwater areas of
streams and for short distances on evenly graded slopes. With sheet flow, the
friction value (ns, which is a modified Manning’s roughness coefficient) is used. These
ns values are for shallow flow depths up to about 0.1 foot and are used only for
travel lengths up to 150 feet on impervious surfaces without curb and 100 feet on
pervious surfaces. The Highway Runoff Manual provides the Manning’s n values for
sheet flow at various surface conditions.
For sheet flow of up to 100 feet, use Manning’s kinematic solution (Equation 2-8) to directly
compute Tt:

Tt = (0.42 (nsL)0.8)/((P2)0.527(So)0.4) (2-8)

where:
Tt = travel time (minutes)
ns = sheet flow Manning’s coefficient
L = flow length (feet)
P2 = 2-year, 24-hour rainfall (inches)
So = slope of hydraulic grade line (land slope, feet vertical/1 foot horizontal [ft/ft])

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• Shallow flow: After the maximum sheet flow length, sheet flow is assumed to
become shallow concentrated flow. The average velocity for this flow can be
calculated using the ks values from the Highway Runoff Manual. Average velocity is a
function of watercourse slope and type of channel. After computing the average
velocity using the velocity equation (Equation 2-9), the travel time (Tt) for the
shallow concentrated flow segment can be computed by dividing the length of the
segment by the average velocity.
• Open channels are assumed to begin where surveyed cross-section information has
been obtained, where channels are visible on aerial photographs, or where lines
indicate that streams appear on USGS quadrangle maps. For developed drainage
systems, the travel time of flow in a pipe is also represented as an open channel. The
kc values from the Highway Runoff Manual used in the velocity equation can be used
to estimate average flow velocity. Average flow velocity is usually determined for
bankfull conditions. After average velocity is computed, the travel time (Tt) for the
channel segment can be computed by dividing the length of the channel segment by
the average velocity.
A commonly used method of computing average velocity of flow, once it has measurable
depth, is the following velocity equation:

V = (k)( So0.5) (2-9)

where:
V = velocity (feet per second [𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓⁄𝑠𝑠])
k = time of concentration velocity factor
So = slope of flow path (𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓⁄𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓)

Regardless of how water moves through a watershed, when estimating travel time (Tt), the
following limitations apply:
• Manning’s kinematic solution shall not be used for sheet flow longer than 300 feet.
• The equations given here to calculate velocity were developed by empirical means;
therefore, English units must be used for all input variables for the equation to yield
a correct result. The Highway Runoff Manual shows suggested n and k values for
various land covers to be used in travel time calculations. Stormshed3G will calculate
time of concentration with inputs of slope and the appropriate coefficient. For small
basins, a minimum time of concentration of 5 minutes shall be entered. Additional
guidance will be provided in future revisions to the Hydraulics Manual.

2-8 Continuous-Simulation Hydrologic Model (Western Washington Only)

When designing stormwater facilities in western Washington, the PEO must use an Ecology-
approved continuous-simulation hydrologic model to meet the requirements of the most
current version of the Highway Runoff Manual. A continuous-simulation hydrologic model
captures the back-to-back effects of storm events that are more common in western
Washington. These events are associated with high volumes of flow from sequential winter

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storms rather than high peak flow from short-duration events, as is characteristic in eastern
Washington.
WSDOT uses MGSFlood (see Highway Runoff Manual), which uses the HSPF routines for
computing runoff from rainfall on pervious and impervious land areas. In addition,
MGSFlood has the BMP design criteria built into the software and will help the sizing of the
stormwater facility to meet the Highway Runoff Manual–required runoff treatment and flow
control flow rates and volumes. WSDOT also uses MGSFlood to estimate seasonal flows for
temporary stream diversion designs.
MGSFlood does have limitations that the PEO should understand before using the program,
regarding the project location, conveyance design, and basin size. MGSFlood is for projects
in western Washington with elevations below 1,500 feet. The program does not include
routines for simulating the accumulation and melting of snow, and its use shall be limited to
areas where snowmelt is not usually a major contributor to floods or to the annual runoff
volume. MGSFlood is not used for conveyance design but is capable for conveyance design
when a small time-step, such as 5 or 15 minutes, is used. For projects located in western
Washington that fall outside the modeling guidelines described in this paragraph, contact
the RHE or State Hydraulics Office staff for assistance.

2-8.1 Modeling Requirements

MGSFlood shall be used once the PEO has selected the BMP(s) for the project site and
has determined the input values for precipitation, delineated drainage basin areas, and
soil characteristics. Each of these input values is further described in the sections below.
2-8.1.1 Precipitation Input
Two methods for transposing precipitation time series are available in the continuous-
simulation model: extended precipitation time series selection and precipitation station
selection. The PEO will generally select the extended precipitation time series unless it is
not available for a project site; then the precipitation station is selected. Both methods are
further described below:
Extended precipitation time series selection: Uses a family of prescaled precipitation and
evaporation time series. Extended precipitation time series regions (Figure 2-1) were
developed by combining and scaling precipitation records from widely separated stations,
resulting in record lengths in excess of 100 years. Extended hourly precipitation and
evaporation time series have been developed using this method for most of the lowland
areas of western Washington where WSDOT projects are constructed. These time series
shall be used for stormwater facility design for project sites.
Precipitation station selection: For project sites located outside the extended time series
region, a second precipitation scaling method is used. The precipitation station selection
outside extended precipitation time series regions is when a source gage is selected (Figure
2-2), and a single scaling factor is applied to transpose the hourly record from the source
gage to the site of interest (target site). The current approach for single-factor scaling, as
recommended in Ecology’s Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington (Ecology
2019), is to compute the scaling factor as the ratio of the 25-year, 24-hour precipitation for

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the target and source sites. Contact the RHE or State Hydraulics Office staff if assistance is
needed in selecting the appropriate gage.
Figure 2-1 Extended Precipitation Time Series Regions

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Figure 2-2 Precipitation Station Selection outside Extended Precipitation Time Series Regions

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2-8.1.2 Hydrologic Soil Groups

For each basin, land cover is defined in units of acres for predeveloped and developed
conditions. Soils must be classified into one of three categories for use in MGSFlood: till,
outwash, or saturated soil (as defined by USGS). Mapping of soil types by NRCS is the most
common source of soil/geologic information used in hydrologic analyses for stormwater
facility design. Each soil type defined by NRCS has been classified into one of four
hydrologic soil groups: A, B, C, or D. In western Washington, the soil groups used in
MGSFlood generally correspond to the NRCS hydrologic soil groups shown in Table 2-6.
Table 2-6 Relationship between NRCS Hydrologic Soil Group and MGSFlood Soil Group
NRCS Group MGSFlood Group
A Outwash
B Till or outwash
C Till
D Saturated
Note:
NRCS = Natural Resources Conservation Service.

NRCS Type B soils can be classified as either glacial till or outwash, depending on the type
of soil under consideration. Type B soils underlain by glacial till or bedrock, or that have a
seasonally high water-table, are classified as till. Conversely, well-drained Type B soils shall
be classified as outwash. It is important to work with the HQ Materials Laboratory or a
licensed geotechnical engineer to confirm that the soil properties and near-surface
hydrogeology of the site are well understood, as they are significant factors in the final
modeling results. The Highway Runoff Manual contains some soils classification information
for preliminary work.
Wetland soils remain saturated throughout much of the year. The hydrologic response from
wetlands is variable, depending on the underlying geology, the proximity of the wetland to
the regional groundwater table, and the geometry of the wetland. Generally, wetlands
provide some base flow to streams in the summer months and attenuate storm flows via
temporary storage and slow release in the winter. Special design consideration must be
given when including wetlands in continuous-simulation runoff modeling.
MGSFlood v4.56 and later uses the default HSPF parameters from Ecology’s Western
Washington Hydrology Model (WWHM), which includes slope groups. These are the default
when MGSFlood opens and are labeled “Ecology Default” on the Parameter screen assessed
from the Tools tab. The original MGSFlood default parameters are labeled “USGS Default.”
Projects created in the older versions of MGSFlood automatically open using the original
parameters. Be sure to select “USGS Default” when using MGSFlood for stormwater system
design per the Highway Runoff Manual.

2-9 Published Flow Records

When available, published flow records provide the most accurate data for designing
culverts and bridge openings. This is because the values are based on actual measured

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flows and not calculated flows. The stream flows are measured at a gaging site for
several years. A statistical analysis, using the USGS Regression Peak FQ, is then
performed on the measured flows to estimate the recurrence interval flows.
USGS, Ecology, local and state municipalities, and several utility companies work
together to maintain gaging sites throughout Washington State. Flood discharges for
these gaging sites can be found in the following websites:
• StreamStats
• [Link]
• Freshwater DataStream data map
• [Link]

2-10 USGS Regression Equations

While measured flows provide the best data for design purposes, it is not practical to gage
all rivers and streams in the state. USGS has developed a set of regression equations to
calculate flows for drainage basins in the absence of a stream flow gage. The equations were
developed by performing a regression analysis on stream flow gage records to determine
which drainage basin parameters are most influential in determining peak runoff rates.
Estimates of the magnitude and frequency of flood-peak discharges and flood hydrographs
are used for a variety of purposes, such as the design of bridges, culverts, and flood-control
structures, and for the management and regulation of floodplains.
The regression analysis divided the state into four hydrologic regions, as shown on the map
in Appendix 2B. The various hydrologic regions require different input variables, depending
on the hydrologic region. Input parameters that may be required include total area of the
drainage basin and percentage of the drainage basin that is in forest cover. The PEO and
Stream Team can determine these variables through use of site maps, aerial photographs,
and site inspections.
The PEO and Stream Team must be aware of the limitations of these equations. They were
developed for natural rural basins. The equations can be used in urban ungaged areas with
additional backup data (i.e., comparing results to the nearest gage data for calibration and
sensitivity analysis, field inspection of high-water lines, and information from local
maintenance). PEOs and Stream Team shall contact the State Hydraulics Office for further
guidance. Also, any river that has a dam and reservoir in it shall not be analyzed with these
equations. Finally, the PEO and Stream Team must keep in mind that, because of the simple
nature of these equations and the broad range of each hydrologic region, the results of the
equations contain a wide confidence interval, represented as the standard error.
The PEOs and Stream Team shall use the mean value determined from the regression
equations with no standard error or confidence interval. The PEO shall validate the
calculated flow rate based on collected field data and site conditions. If the flows are too
low or too high for that basin based on information that the PEO and Stream Team has
collected, then the PEO and Stream Team may apply the standard error specific to the

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regression equation accordingly. The PEO and Stream Team shall consult the RHE or State
Hydraulics Office for assistance.
StreamStats is another USGS tool that not only estimates peak flows but also can delineate
the basin area and determine the mean annual precipitation as well as other basin
characteristics.

2-11 Existing Hydrologic Studies

Existing hydrologic studies have been developed for many rivers in Washington State.
FEMA has developed most of these studies. USACE and local agencies have developed
other reports.
Many small and medium streams within urbanizing areas have had some modeling by local
government. These can be useful and appropriate to adopt for WSDOT use, following
examination of model assumptions and drainage basin delineation.
These reports are a good source of flow information because they were developed to
analyze the flows during flooding conditions of a particular river or stream. The types of
calculations used by the agency conducting the analysis may be more complex than the
Rational Method or USGS regression equations. However, if the analysis has already been
performed by another agency, then it is in WSDOT’s best interest to use this information.
FEMA reports and USACE existing hydrologic studies are available on the FEMA map
service center website. The State Hydraulics Office shall be contacted for local agency
reports. The State Hydraulics Office may also have basin planning documents or action
plans that could contain flow rate information. These studies shall be used with caution as
they may have been developed for a different purpose or may be outdated and therefore
may not be transferable/applicable for the design of transportation infrastructure.

2-12 Examples
Compute the 25-year runoff for the Spokane watershed shown in Figure 2-3. Three
types of flow conditions exist from the highest point in the watershed to the outlet. The
upper portion is 4.0 acres of forest cover with an average slope of 0.15 foot vertical per
1 foot horizontal (ft/ft). The middle portion is 1.0 acre of single-family residential with a
slope of 0.06 ft/ft and primarily lawns. The lower portion is a 0.8-acre park with 18-
inch-diameter storm sewers with a general slope of 0.01 ft/ft.

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Figure 2-3 Rational Formula Example

𝐿𝐿 1800 650 820

𝑇𝑇𝑐𝑐 = Σ = + +
𝐾𝐾√𝑆𝑆 150√0.15 420√0.06 3900√0.01
𝑇𝑇𝑐𝑐 = 31 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚 + 6 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚 + 2 min = 39𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
𝑚𝑚 9.09
𝐼𝐼 = = = 0.93 𝑖𝑖𝑖𝑖�ℎ𝑟𝑟
(𝑇𝑇𝑐𝑐 )𝑛𝑛 (39)0.626
ΣCA = 0.22(4.0 𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎) + 0.44(1.0 𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎) + 0.11(0.8 𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎) = 1.4 acres
𝐼𝐼(Σ𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶) (0.93)(1.4)
𝑄𝑄 = = = 1.31 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐
𝐾𝐾𝑐𝑐 1

2-13 Appendices
Appendix 2A Isopluvial and MAP Web Links and Mean Annual Precipitation Data
Appendix 2B USGS Regression Equation Zone Map

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Chapter 2 Hydrology

Appendix 2A Isopluvial and MAP Web Links and Mean

Annual Precipitation Data
The 24-hour and 2-hour isopluvial maps and mean annual precipitation maps for
Washington are available in PDF format on WSDOT’s hydraulics and hydrology webpage
under tools, templates, and links or by using GIS Workbench. Contact your local GIS group
for how to extract digital precipitation data using ArcMap.

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 Appendix 2B USGS Regression Equation Zone Map

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