TUFLOW 2026 is a major release of the hydraulic and environmental modeling software, with the initial 2026.2.0. It represents one of the most significant upgrades in TUFLOW’s history, introducing Linux support, a unified installer, new licensing options, and substantial engine improvements.

Key Features in the 2026 Release

Platform & Deployment

  • TUFLOW on Linux: Both TUFLOW Classic/HPC and TUFLOW FV now run on Linux, reducing cloud computing costs and offering flexibility between operating systems.

  • Unified Installer: A new installer streamlines version control and organizational rollout. TUFLOW FV is now distributed as a .msi Windows Installer package, with silent installation supported via msiexec for automated deployment.

  • Expanded Raster Integration: GDAL library is now included within the TUFLOW executable, enabling broader raster compatibility and smoother workflows across GIS platforms.

Licensing & Pricing Changes

  • Engine Bundle Discount: License holders of one hydraulic engine (Classic/HPC or FV) are eligible for a 100% purchase discount when requesting licenses for the alternate engine, making it easier to access both flood and environmental modeling capabilities.

  • Two-Week Rentals: Shorter-term license rentals (previously one month minimum) are now available, practical for cloud overflow capacity during high-demand periods.

New Functionality (Classic/HPC)

  • New Default Settings: A new TIN triangulation method (Method B) and a new HPC wetting/drying approach (Method C) are implemented, improving robustness and reducing oscillations between wet/dry states.

  • Groundwater Improvements: Soil porosity is removed from horizontal groundwater flux calculations, and a new option reduces flux based on relative saturation power function.

  • GeoPackage Output: Advanced dynamic styling of 1D map outputs is now supported.

  • HEC-DSS & SWMM: Additional HEC-DSS inflow option support and independent urban stormwater inlet pit inflow/surcharge flow curves are included.

New Functionality (TUFLOW FV)

  • Online User Manual: The FV manual is now delivered in a modern, searchable online format.

  • Build Process Updates: Migrated to the Intel IFX Fortran compiler and CUDA 12.9 (from CUDA 11.8), maintaining compatibility with current NVIDIA hardware.

  • Destratification Enhancement: Improved Unit Structure Type for 3D density applications, such as reservoir water quality modeling.