-
- H21O-1173: A Multi-Indicator Approach to Seasonal Streamflow Forecasting in Snow-Dominated Watersheds of the Intermountain West
-
Board 1173‚ Hall EFG (Poster Hall)NOLA CC
Author(s):Generic 'disconnected' Message
Reza Morovati, Utah State University (First Author, Presenting Author)
David Tarboton, Utah State University
Accurate seasonal forecasts of streamflow are vital for managing water resources, especially in snow-dominated regions. Traditional forecasting methods often rely on limited data and might not fully capture all the factors influencing streamflow, such as snow, soil wetness, and baseflow (water already moving through the ground). This study aimed to see if including multiple indicators, specifically the snow water equivalent (SWE, or how much water is stored in the snowpack), January baseflow (an indicator of watershed subsurface water storage and predictor for runoff efficiency), and soil moisture, could make forecasts more accurate. We used data from 1990 to 2024 to create improved forecast models for water supply forecast sites in the Upper Colorado River and Great Salt Lake Basins. Results showed forecasts improved when these indicators were included. Among these, soil moisture had the largest positive impact on forecast accuracy. This means that incorporating soil moisture can enhance the reliability of seasonal streamflow predictions. Better forecasts help water managers make informed decisions about water supplies, drought preparedness, and flood risks. Overall, this research demonstrates the practical benefits of combining multiple data sources, especially soil moisture, to better predict seasonal water availability in snow-dominated western US regions.
Scientific DisciplineSuggested ItinerariesNeighborhoodType
Enter Note
Go to previous page in this tab
Session
