Generation of curve number map with geographicalinformation system

Abstract

Recently, the application of hydrological models has been increasing because it is an effective tool that allows us to represent the different processes involved in the distribution of rain and the generation of flows in a basin. For the estimation of the infiltration process, different methods have been used, being one of the most extended and experienced empirical models for the quantification of the infiltration, the Curve Number of the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) of the USA, which is a hydrological parameter used in the runoff estimation. The objective of this study was the generation of thematic maps of Curve Number for the area of the Peruvian territory, This methodology was based on the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools, which allow to work with diverse data such as maps of coverage and use, texture of floors and digital models of elevations (MDE). The thematic maps were obtained through the application of reclassification tables and overlapping operations of the different layers of information on which it depends, obtaining as a result raster maps of “Curve number”, for normal conditions, wet conditions and dry conditions, parameters very important in hydrological studies.