This study investigates the synergistic interaction between natural infrastructure and traditional drainage systems in improving urban flood management efficiency in Wuhan, China. Using a scenario-based analytical approach, three configurations were examined: (1) a conventional drainage system, (2) a natural infrastructure-based system, and (3) a hybrid system integrating both. Empirical data were collected from the Qingshan District of Wuhan, the capital of Hubei Province. The findings reveal that the hybrid system achieved the lowest peak flow at 85.7 m³/s—approximately a 30% reduction compared to the traditional drainage system. This performance also surpassed that of the standalone natural infrastructure scenario, which demonstrated a moderate reduction to 101.2 m³/s. The analysis further highlights that natural infrastructure primarily mitigates initial runoff, while the traditional drainage network in the integrated system effectively delays flow discharge, creating a synergistic effect that enhances overall system performance. Statistical modelling and performance benchmarking reaffirm the strategic potential of hybrid drainage systems as a sustainable and efficient solution for urban flood resilience in rapidly urbanising environments.
