School News :: School of Engineering

School News

  • 18 - Sep
  • 2023

Prof. Dr. Radwan Al-Weshah Senior Water and Hydrology Expert appeared on Al-Arabi TV and Al Jazeera Channel to discuss the devastating floods in Libya's Darnah region

I recently appeared on Al-Arabi TV and Al Jazeera Channel to discuss the devastating floods in Libya's Darnah region. Using top hydrology models and satellite data, I conducted a hydrologic analysis and simulation of the storm and Wadi Darnah Catchment, which spans 555 km². The analysis revealed a flood volume of 70 million cubic meters and peak flood flow of 1100 m³/s during the Danial Storm, which had a record rainfall of 200mm/day. Unfortunately, the two dams in the area, with a total capacity of only 20 MCM, were unable to withstand the flood, resulting in additional dam break flood waves that exacerbated the crisis. This flash flood washed away 30% of Darnah City, leaving tens of thousands dead and homeless. My heart goes out to the victims and their families, as well as the Libyan people at large.