Bifurcation or split, how to model it!?

[ras_user]

I have to model an underground channel, rectangular section, that in some point split or bifurcates into to branches that continue parallels to each other until they discharge in a natural storage area or detention pond. The transition at the split is something like this: _____________ the "/" symbol representing the
_______/ connection, the skew is 45 degrees.

The question is how should I model this, with a parallel reach and a junction at the split and using flow optimization or simply by introducing two different sections, one upstream the split and another downstream and interpolating between them?

Upstream section Dowstream section
____
| | | | | |
|___| |___| |___|

Thanks, hope someone can help me.

[ras_user]

Sorry, I tried drawing with the keyboard but don't look good. Here's a better one.

[jarvus lunt]

Are the two channels hydraulically connected? If they are not connected, I would use a junction and have two separate reaches. If they are connected (so that they have the same energy grade and flow can move back and forth between them, then model it as a single reach.