A Technique for Estimating Time of Concentration and Storage Coefficient Values for Illinois Streams

Water-Resources Investigations Report 82-22
Prepared in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Transportation Division of Water Resources
By: , and 

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Abstract

Values of the unit hydrograph parameters time of concentration (TC) and storage coefficient (R) can be estimated for streams in Illinois by a two-step technique developed from data for 98 gaged basins in the State. The sum of TC and R is related to stream length (L) and main channel slope (S) by the relation (TC + R)e = 35.2L0.39 S-0.78. The variable R/(TC + R) is not significantly correlated with drainage area, slope, or length, but does exhibit a regional trend. Regional values of R/(TC + R) are used with the computed values of (TC + R)e to solve for estimated values of time of concentration (TCe) and storage coefficient (Re). The use of the variable R/(TC + R) is thought to account for variations in unit hydrograph parameters caused by physiographic variables such as basin topography, flood-plain development, and basin storage characteristics.

Suggested Citation

Graf, J.B., Garklavs, G., and Oberg, K.A., 1982, A technique for estimating time of concentration and storage coefficient values for Illinois streams: U.S. Geological Survey Water-Resources Investigations Report 82–22, 10 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/wri8222.

Study Area

Table of Contents

  • Abstract
  • Introduction
  • Estimating Technique
  • Discussion
  • Summary
  • References
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title A technique for estimating time of concentration and storage coefficient values for Illinois streams
Series title Water-Resources Investigations Report
Series number 82-22
DOI 10.3133/wri8222
Year Published 1982
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Description v, 10 p.
Country United States
State Illinois
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details