Hydrological behaviour of the granitic Strengbach catchment (Vosges Massif, eastern France) during a flood event

Abstract : A field campaign combining monitoring devices and determination of isotopes and chemical elements has been performed during a summer thunderstorm in the small granitic Strengbach catchment (Vosges, France). The collected ground data were used in a hydrological modelling exercise, including two conceptual rainfall-runoff models (GR4, TOPMODEL). The predominant role in flood generation of pre-event water coming from the superficial layers of the water saturated area is shown and a conceptual scheme is proposed derived from the field observations. The two tested modelling structures and assumptions are not able to fully take into account the complexity of the physical processes involved in flood generation.