Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Investigation of trends in flooding in the Tug Fork basin of Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia

January 1, 1982

Statistical analysis indicates that the average size of annual-flood peaks of the Tug Fork (Ky., Va., and W. Va.) has been increasing. However, additional statistical analysis does not indicate that the flood levels that were exceeded typically once or twice a year in the period 1947-79 are any more likely to be exceeded now than in 1947. Possible trends in streamchannel size also are investigated at three locations. No discernible trends in channel size are noted. Further statistical analysis of the trend in the size of annual-flood peaks shows that much of the annual variation is related to local rainfall and to the 'natural' hydrologic response in a relatively undisturbed subbasin. However, some statistical indication of trend persists after accounting for these natural factors, though it is of borderline statistical significance. Further study in the basin may relate flood magnitudes to both rainfall and to land use.

Publication Year 1982
Title Investigation of trends in flooding in the Tug Fork basin of Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia
DOI 10.3133/wsp2203
Authors Robert M. Hirsch, Arthur G. Scott, Timothy Wyant
Publication Type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Series Title Water Supply Paper
Series Number 2203
Index ID wsp2203
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse