ABSTRACT
The discharge hydrograph consists of a series of irregular saw-tooth-shaped fluctuations superimposed on a gently undulating section. The shape and dimensions of the hydrograph are controlled by a variety of factors, many being interrelated. While the factors that influence the characteristics of the hydrograph are for the most part readily recognizable, relatively few studies have aimed at establishing quantitative relations between the flood and these factors. Some floods are caused by dam bursts, earth movements, and high tides, but these are rare by comparison with the floods due to intense rain or rapid snow melt. Basin shape is of obvious importance in influencing peak flow and other hydrograph characteristics, although it is a feature which is difficult to express numerically. The altitudinal extent of the basin the gauging station exercises direct and indirect control over the magnitude of the flood peak.
