Using a dense seismic array to study fluvial processes in a braided river reach under flood conditions

Dense seismic array monitoring has recently allowed the detailed investigation of sources ground vibrations and their spatiotemporal dynamics. In a context where traditional techniques for fluvial processes often do not provide data with adequate temporal spatial resolution, use dense arrays could allow identification tracking different river-induced (e.g. turbulence bedload transport). Here, we study potential by investigating high-flow event that occurred in summer 2019 along 600-m-long braided reach Séveraisse River (French Alps). We network 80 seismometers deployed on both river banks, supplement observations flow gauging measurements time-lapse imagery. During this event, observe impulsive signals are coherently detected over array, which interpret as being associated transport clusters coarse grains (blocks). Through phase-delay analysis able to locate these events bend apex an active branch reach. These results demonstrate capability such method activity at high providing crucial information geomorphological investigations natural risk management.