Hydrology Studio seamlessly utilizes rainfall data, whether it is pre-installed or user-added. This information is stored internally and operates in the background. Whenever a hydrograph is generated or calculated, the software automatically incorporates this rainfall data. Once configured for your specific area, minimal action is required on your part. The rainfall data is automatically retrieved each time the program is launched.
The software comes preloaded with default data that is helpful for familiarizing yourself with the program. However, you will eventually need to configure your own local data. It utilizes three distinct files for this purpose.
- IDF Curves – For use in computing flows for the Rational Method and developing Synthetic Design Storms when using the NRCS method
- Precipitation Data – Rainfall totals for use in NRCS-based hydrographs
- Custom Design Storms – While Hydrology Studio has an entire library of built-in storms, this file holds up to 10 design storms that you can customize
Hydrology Studio takes care of these files automatically by opening them at startup and saving any changes upon exit. After you have configured these settings, no further action is required on your part. There is no need to repeat this setup process.
Since the software automatically loads your rainfall files upon each launch, it is important that you do not rename these files outside of the software’s environment.
It is recommended that you save these three files in the Rainfall Files folder within your Hydrology Studio directory. However, you may choose to store them in any other local folder of your preference. The files that are currently active can be viewed in the Status Bar located at the bottom of the Main Window. Ensure that Hydrology Studio can access these files upon startup.
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Should you encounter the error message mentioned above upon launching, it indicates that one of your rainfall files is either outdated or potentially corrupted. In such a case, please open the Rainfall Wizard and review each file, including the IDF curves, Precipitation, and Custom Storms. Save each file again, then close the Rainfall Wizard. Finally, exit the software and restart it.
All rainfall files are embedded in each project file so it is not necessary, for example, to email an associate, the .hys project file and the associated rainfall files.
Below is a basic explanation of how to setup your rainfall:
Rational Method Hydrographs
If you plan to only use the Rational Method then all you’ll need to do is:
NRCS Hydrographs
If you plan to use the NRCS hydrographs then:
- Choose Return Periods
- Select the Design Storm
- Enter your local rainfall amounts
All three of these steps are completed here.
Use RainMaps™ to Localize Rainfall
RainMaps™ is a cloud-based server which contains Hydrology Studio Suite specific rainfall files (.idf and .pcp) you would normally have to set-up in the software either by direct entry of data or importing from NOAA Atlas 14 as described in the steps above. We’ve taken all of the steps required to create these files so you won’t have to. And they are available with just a couple of mouse-clicks. Learn more…