How is dam break flood analysis performed?

Dam break analysis involves: (1) Breach formation - geometry (depth, width, shape) and timing (regression equations or physical modeling), (2) Peak discharge estimation - empirical (Q = f(height, storage)) or physical (Q = Cd*B*(2g*H)^0.5), (3) Downstream routing - solve Saint-Venant equations (1D: HEC-RAS, MIKE 11; 2D: HEC-RAS 2D, MIKE 21) including floodplain storage and bridge effects, (4) Inundation mapping - depths, velocities, arrival times. Results inform emergency action plans (EAP), evacuation zones, and dam classification. Sensitivity analysis for breach parameters essential given uncertainty.