Variable Sets principle and method for flood classification

Flood classification is an effective way to improve flood forecasting accuracy. According to the opposite unity mathematical theorem in Variable Sets theory, this paper proposes a Variable Sets principle and method for flood classification, which is based on the mathematical theorem of dialectics basic laws. This newly proposed method explores a novel way to analyze and solve engineering problems by utilizing a dialectical thinking. In this paper, the Tuwei River basin, located in the Yellow River tributary, is taken as an example for flood classification. The results obtained in this study reveal the problems in a previous method-Set Pair Analysis classification method. The variable sets method is proven to be theoretically rigorous, computationally simple. The classification results are objective, accurate and consistent with the actual situations. This study demonstrates the significant importance of using a scientifically sound method in solving engineering problems.