Floods, tides and tsunamis are turbulent, yet conventional models are based upon depth averaging inviscid irrotational flow equations. We propose to change the base of such modelling to the Smagorinksi large eddy closure for turbulence in order to appropriately match the underlying fluid dynamics. Our approach allows for large changes in fluid depth to cater for extreme inundations. The key to the analysis underlying the approach is to choose surface and bed boundary conditions that accommodate a constant turbulent shear as a nearly neutral mode. Analysis supported by slow manifold theory then constructs a model for the coupled dynamics of the fluid depth and the mean turbulent lateral velocity. The model resolves the internal turbulent shear in the flow and thus may be used in further work to rationally predict erosion and transport in turbulent floods.
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