Abstract : A simplified model is proposed to evaluate the peak break flow in the event of total and immediate destruction of an embankment dam following overtopping. The empirical formula presented here for calculating the peak burst flow, noted Qp, is a function of the water height upstream of the dam wall. The parameters used in the peak flow formula are obtained by constructing a 95% confidence interval based on a normal distribution of the sample consisting of the mean flow values calculated by a selection of 11 existing empirical formulae. However, due to the small sample size, Student's law was used for the sampling distribution. Validation of the results of the proposed empirical formula made it possible to establish encouraging results, taking into account a margin of error of 20%. This validation was carried out by comparing the results obtained by the use of three numerical models for three cases of dams in Algeria, namely: Telemac 2D, HEC-RAS, and Castor. The margin of error of the rupture flow rate Qp calculated by the proposed formula and by the Telemac 2D model is 7%. It stands at 12% with the HEC-RAS model and 18% with the Castor model. In conclusion, this formula allows engineers and safety specialists to calculate in a simple, rapid and instantaneous manner the peak rupture flow, which depends on a single parameter: the height of water available upstream of the dam. In addition, this approach facilitates the work of modeling the submergence wave.