ALBERT

Description: Multiple domain evaluation of watershed hydrology models Karthik Kumarasamy and Patrick Belmont Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-121,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Watershed scale models simulating hydrology and water quality have advanced rapidly in sophistication. Given the importance of these models to support decision-making for a wide range of environmental issues, the hydrology community is compelled to improve the metrics used to evaluate model performance. We introduce a suite of new tools and metrics for model evaluation. We propose general guidelines for selecting parameters that should be included for matching predicted flow with measured flow.

Description: Moment-based Metrics for Global Sensitivity Analysis of Hydrological Systems Aronne Dell'Oca, Monica Riva, and Alberto Guadagnini Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-90,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) We propose new metrics to assist global sensitivity analysis of Earth systems. Our approach allows assessing the impact of model parameters on the first four statistical moments of a target model output, allowing to ascertain which parameters can affect some moments of the model output pdf while being uninfluential to others. Our approach is fully compatible with analysis in the context of model complexity reduction, design of experiment, uncertainty quantification and risk assessment.

Description: Risk assessment of liquefaction-induced hazards using Bayesian network based on standard penetration test data Xiao-Wei Tang, Jiang-Nan Qiu, and Ji-Lei Hu Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-80,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Liquefaction-induced hazards are responsible for considerable damages to engineering structures during major earthquakes. Presently, there is not any effective empirical approach that can assess different liquefaction-induced hazards in one model, such as sand boils, ground cracks, settlement, and lateral spreading, due to the uncertainties and complexity of multiple related factors of seismic liquefaction and liquefaction-induced hazards. This study used Bayesian network method to integrate multiple important factors of seismic liquefaction, sand boils, ground cracks, settlement and lateral spreading into a model based on standard penetration test historical data, so that the constructed Bayesian network model can assess the four different liquefaction-induced hazards together for free fields. In the study case, compared with the artificial neural network technology and the Ishihara and Yoshimine simplified method, the Bayesian network method performed a better classification ability, because its prediction probabilities of Accuracy , Brier score , Recall , Precision , and area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic ( AUC of ROC ) are better, which illustrated that the Bayesian network method is a good alternative tool for risk assessment of liquefaction-induced hazards. Furthermore, the performances of the application of the BN model in estimating liquefaction-induced hazards in the Japan's Northeast Pacific Offshore Earthquake also prove the correctness and reliability of it compared with the liquefaction potential index approach. Except for assessing the severity of hazards induced by soil liquefaction, the proposed Bayesian network model can also predict whether the soil is liquefied or not after an earthquake, and it can deduce the process of a chain reaction of the liquefaction-induced hazards and do backward reasoning, the assessment results from the proposed model could provide informative guidelines for decision-makers to detect damage state of a field induced by liquefaction.

Description: Impact of icebergs on net primary productivity in the Southern Ocean Shuang-Ye Wu and Shugui Hou The Cryosphere, 11, 707-722, doi:10.5194/tc-11-707-2017, 2017 The primary productivity in the Southern Ocean (SO) is limited by the amount of iron available for biological activities. Recent studies show that icebergs could be a main source of iron to the SO. Based on remote sensing data, our study shows that iceberg presence is associated with elevated levels of ocean productivity, particularly in iron-deficient regions. This impact could serve as a negative feedback to the climate system.

Description: Bromine, iodine and sodium in surface snow along the 2013 Talos Dome–GV7 traverse (northern Victoria Land, East Antarctica) Niccolò Maffezzoli, Andrea Spolaor, Carlo Barbante, Michele Bertò, Massimo Frezzotti, and Paul Vallelonga The Cryosphere, 11, 693-705, doi:10.5194/tc-11-693-2017, 2017 Sea ice is a crucial parameter within Earth's climate system. Understanding its dynamics and its response to other climatic variables is therefore of primary importance in view of a warming climate and sea ice decline. In this work we investigate some features of a chemical parameter in ice cores, bromine enrichment, which is linked to sea ice and can therefore be used to reconstruct sea ice in the past.

Description: Application of a two-step approach for mapping ice thickness to various glacier types on Svalbard Johannes Jakob Fürst, Fabien Gillet-Chaulet, Toby J. Benham, Julian A. Dowdeswell, Mariusz Grabiec, Francisco Navarro, Rickard Pettersson, Geir Moholdt, Christopher Nuth, Björn Sass, Kjetil Aas, Xavier Fettweis, Charlotte Lang, Thorsten Seehaus, and Matthias Braun The Cryosphere Discuss., doi:10.5194/tc-2017-30,2017 Manuscript under review for TC (discussion: open, 0 comments) For the large majority of glaciers and ice caps, there is no information on the thickness of the ice cover. Any attempt to predict glacier demise under climatic warming and to estimate the future contribution to sea-level rise is limited as long as the glacier thickness is not well constrained. Here, we present a two-step mass-conservation approach for mapping ice thickness. Measurements are naturally reproduced. The reliability is readily assessible from a complementary map of error estimates.

Description: Bromine, iodine and sodium in surface snow along the 2013 Talos Dome–GV7 traverse (northern Victoria Land, East Antarctica) Niccolò Maffezzoli, Andrea Spolaor, Carlo Barbante, Michele Bertò, Massimo Frezzotti, and Paul Vallelonga The Cryosphere, 11, 693-705, doi:10.5194/tc-11-693-2017, 2017 Sea ice is a crucial parameter within Earth's climate system. Understanding its dynamics and its response to other climatic variables is therefore of primary importance in view of a warming climate and sea ice decline. In this work we investigate some features of a chemical parameter in ice cores, bromine enrichment, which is linked to sea ice and can therefore be used to reconstruct sea ice in the past.

Description: Application of a two-step approach for mapping ice thickness to various glacier types on Svalbard Johannes Jakob Fürst, Fabien Gillet-Chaulet, Toby J. Benham, Julian A. Dowdeswell, Mariusz Grabiec, Francisco Navarro, Rickard Pettersson, Geir Moholdt, Christopher Nuth, Björn Sass, Kjetil Aas, Xavier Fettweis, Charlotte Lang, Thorsten Seehaus, and Matthias Braun The Cryosphere Discuss., doi:10.5194/tc-2017-30,2017 Manuscript under review for TC (discussion: open, 0 comments) For the large majority of glaciers and ice caps, there is no information on the thickness of the ice cover. Any attempt to predict glacier demise under climatic warming and to estimate the future contribution to sea-level rise is limited as long as the glacier thickness is not well constrained. Here, we present a two-step mass-conservation approach for mapping ice thickness. Measurements are naturally reproduced. The reliability is readily assessible from a complementary map of error estimates.

Description: Impact of icebergs on net primary productivity in the Southern Ocean Shuang-Ye Wu and Shugui Hou The Cryosphere, 11, 707-722, doi:10.5194/tc-11-707-2017, 2017 The primary productivity in the Southern Ocean (SO) is limited by the amount of iron available for biological activities. Recent studies show that icebergs could be a main source of iron to the SO. Based on remote sensing data, our study shows that iceberg presence is associated with elevated levels of ocean productivity, particularly in iron-deficient regions. This impact could serve as a negative feedback to the climate system.

Description: Seasonal forecasting of hydrological drought in the Limpopo Basin: a comparison of statistical methods Mathias Seibert, Bruno Merz, and Heiko Apel Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1611-1629, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1611-2017, 2017 Seasonal early warning is vital for drought management in arid regions like the Limpopo Basin in southern Africa. This study shows that skilled seasonal forecasts can be achieved with statistical methods built upon driving factors for drought occurrence. These are the hydrological factors for current streamflow and meteorological drivers represented by anomalies in sea surface temperatures of the surrounding oceans, which combine to form unique combinations in the drought forecast models.

Description: A sprinkling experiment to quantify celerity-velocity differences at the hillslope scale Willem J. van Verseveld, Holly R. Barnard, Chris B. Graham, Jeffrey J. McDonnell, J. Renée Brooks, and Markus Weiler Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-125,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) How stream water responds immediately to a rainfall or snow event while the average time it takes water to travel through the hillslope can be years or decades, is poorly understood. We assessed this difference by combining a 24 day sprinkler experiment (a tracer was applied at the start) with a process based hydrologic model. Immobile soil water, deep groundwater contribution and soil depth variability explained this difference at our hillslope site.

Description: Groundwater impacts on surface water quality and nutrient loads in lowland polder catchments: monitoring the greater Amsterdam area Liang Yu, Joachim Rozemeijer, Boris M. van Breukelen, Maarten Ouboter, Corné van der Vlugt, and Hans Peter Broers Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-99,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The study shows the importance of the connection between groundwater and surface water nutrient chemistry in a lowland delta area – the greater Amsterdam area. We expect that taking account of groundwater-surface water interaction is also important in other subsiding and urbanising deltas around the world, where water is managed intensively in order to enable agricultural productivity and achieve water sustainable cities.

Description: Parameter optimisation for a better representation of drought by LSMs: inverse modelling vs. sequential data assimilation Hélène Dewaele, Simon Munier, Clément Albergel, Carole Planque, Nabil Laanaia, Dominique Carrer, and Jean-Christophe Calvet Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-120,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Soil Maximum Available Water Content (MaxAWC) is a key parameter in land surface models. Being difficult to measure, this parameter is usually unavailable. A fifteen-year time-series of satellite-derived observations of Leaf Area Index (LAI) is used to retrieve MaxAWC for rainfed croplands over France. LAI is sequentially assimilated into the ISBA LSM. MaxAWC is retrieved minimizing LAI analyses increments. Annual maximum LAI observations correlate with MaxAWC.

Description: Analysis of streamflow response to land use land cover changes using satellite data and hydrological modelling: case study of Dinder and Rahad tributaries of the Blue Nile (Ethiopia/Sudan) Khalid Hassaballah, Yasir Mohamed, Stefan Uhlenbrook, and Khalid Biro Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-128,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The Dinder and Rahad experienced significant hydrological changes during recent years. This is claimed to be due to land use land cover changes (LULCC). Specific studies on LULCC in the Dinder and Rahad basins are still missing. This paper aims to understand the LULCC in the Dinder and Rahad and its implications on streamflow using satellite data and hydrological modelling. We expect that this study will be of high importance for decision making related to water resources planning and management.

Description: A conceptual prediction model of seasonal drought processes using atmospheric and oceanic Standardized Anomalies: application in four recent severe drought events in China Zhenchen Liu, Guihua Lu, Hai He, Zhiyong Wu, and Jian He Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-136,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Process prediction of seasonal drought is the goal of our study. We developed a drought prediction model based on atmospheric/oceanic anomalies. It is essentially the synchronous statistical relationship between atmospheric/oceanic anomalies and precipitation anomalies, forced by seasonal climate forecast models. It can predict seasonal drought development very well, despite its weakness in drought severity.

Description: A national-scale seasonal hydrological forecast system: development and evaluation over Britain Victoria A. Bell, Helen N. Davies, Alison L. Kay, Anca Brookshaw, and Adam A. Scaife Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-154,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The research presented here provides the first evaluation of the skill of a seasonal hydrological forecast for the UK. The forecast scheme combines rainfall forecasts from the Met Office GloSea5 forecast system with a national-scale hydrological model to provide estimates of river flows 1 to 3 months ahead. The skill in the combined model is assessed for different seasons and regions of Britain, and the analysis indicates that Autumn/Winter flows can be forecast with reasonable confidence.

Description: A national-scale seasonal hydrological forecast system: development and evaluation over Britain Victoria A. Bell, Helen N. Davies, Alison L. Kay, Anca Brookshaw, and Adam A. Scaife Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-154,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The research presented here provides the first evaluation of the skill of a seasonal hydrological forecast for the UK. The forecast scheme combines rainfall forecasts from the Met Office GloSea5 forecast system with a national-scale hydrological model to provide estimates of river flows 1 to 3 months ahead. The skill in the combined model is assessed for different seasons and regions of Britain, and the analysis indicates that Autumn/Winter flows can be forecast with reasonable confidence.

Description: High-magnitude flooding across Britain since AD 1750 Neil Macdonald and Heather Sangster Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1631-1650, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1631-2017, 2017 We use historical records to extend current understanding of flood risk, examining past spatial and temporal variability and ask are the perceived high-magnitude flood events witnessed in recent years really unprecedented? We identify that there are statistically significant relationships between the British flood index and climatic drivers, whereby the largest floods often transcend single catchments affecting regions and that the current flood-rich period is not unprecedented.

Description: A conceptual prediction model of seasonal drought processes using atmospheric and oceanic Standardized Anomalies: application in four recent severe drought events in China Zhenchen Liu, Guihua Lu, Hai He, Zhiyong Wu, and Jian He Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-136,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Process prediction of seasonal drought is the goal of our study. We developed a drought prediction model based on atmospheric/oceanic anomalies. It is essentially the synchronous statistical relationship between atmospheric/oceanic anomalies and precipitation anomalies, forced by seasonal climate forecast models. It can predict seasonal drought development very well, despite its weakness in drought severity.

Description: Analysis of streamflow response to land use land cover changes using satellite data and hydrological modelling: case study of Dinder and Rahad tributaries of the Blue Nile (Ethiopia/Sudan) Khalid Hassaballah, Yasir Mohamed, Stefan Uhlenbrook, and Khalid Biro Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-128,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The Dinder and Rahad experienced significant hydrological changes during recent years. This is claimed to be due to land use land cover changes (LULCC). Specific studies on LULCC in the Dinder and Rahad basins are still missing. This paper aims to understand the LULCC in the Dinder and Rahad and its implications on streamflow using satellite data and hydrological modelling. We expect that this study will be of high importance for decision making related to water resources planning and management.

Description: High-magnitude flooding across Britain since AD 1750 Neil Macdonald and Heather Sangster Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1631-1650, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1631-2017, 2017 We use historical records to extend current understanding of flood risk, examining past spatial and temporal variability and ask are the perceived high-magnitude flood events witnessed in recent years really unprecedented? We identify that there are statistically significant relationships between the British flood index and climatic drivers, whereby the largest floods often transcend single catchments affecting regions and that the current flood-rich period is not unprecedented.

Description: Ice-shelf damming in the glacial Arctic Ocean: dynamical regimes of a basin-covering kilometre thick ice shelf Johan Nilsson, Martin Jakobsson, Chris Borstad, Nina Kirchner, Göran Björk, Raymond T. Pierrehumbert, and Christian Stranne The Cryosphere Discuss., doi:10.5194/tc-2017-37,2017 Manuscript under review for TC (discussion: open, 0 comments) Recent data suggest that a one-kilometre thick ice shelf extended over the glacial Arctic Ocean during MIS 6, about 140 000 years ago. Here, we theoretically analyse the development and equilibrium features of such an ice shelf. The ice shelf was effectively dammed by the Fram Strait and the mean ice-shelf thickness was controlled primarily by the horizontally-integrated mass balance. Our results can aid to resolve some outstanding questions of the state of the glacial Arctic Ocean.

Description: Ice-shelf damming in the glacial Arctic Ocean: dynamical regimes of a basin-covering kilometre thick ice shelf Johan Nilsson, Martin Jakobsson, Chris Borstad, Nina Kirchner, Göran Björk, Raymond T. Pierrehumbert, and Christian Stranne The Cryosphere Discuss., doi:10.5194/tc-2017-37,2017 Manuscript under review for TC (discussion: open, 0 comments) Recent data suggest that a one-kilometre thick ice shelf extended over the glacial Arctic Ocean during MIS 6, about 140 000 years ago. Here, we theoretically analyse the development and equilibrium features of such an ice shelf. The ice shelf was effectively dammed by the Fram Strait and the mean ice-shelf thickness was controlled primarily by the horizontally-integrated mass balance. Our results can aid to resolve some outstanding questions of the state of the glacial Arctic Ocean.

Description: Community-based early warning systems for flood risk mitigation in Nepal Paul J. Smith, Sarah Brown, and Sumit Dugar Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci., 17, 423-437, doi:10.5194/nhess-17-423-2017, 2017 Risks from flooding are of global importance. Experience gained in Nepal is presented to demonstrate that empowering the communities impacted by flooding to be active participants in risk mitigation can have significant positive impacts. In part this is achieved through community involvement in the provision of warnings based on observations of river flow upstream. The success of simple, robust methodology for the early provision of such warnings based on predicting future river flows is shown.

Description: Heterogeneity measures in hydrological frequency analysis: review and new developments Ana I. Requena, Fateh Chebana, and Taha B. M. J. Ouarda Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1651-1668, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1651-2017, 2017 The notion of a measure to quantify the degree of heterogeneity of a region from which information is required to estimate the magnitude of events at ungauged sites is introduced. These heterogeneity measures are needed to compare regions, evaluate the impact of particular sites, and rank the performance of delineating methods. A framework to define and assess their desirable properties is proposed. Several heterogeneity measures are presented and/or developed to be assessed, giving guidelines.

Description: Long-term projections of global water use for electricity generation under the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways and climate mitigation scenarios Nozomi Ando, Sayaka Yoshikawa, Shinichiro Fujimori, and Shinjiro Kanae Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-27,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Electricity generation may become a key factor that accelerates water scarcity. In this study, we estimated the future global water use for electricity generation from 2005 to 2100 in 17 global sub-regions. Consequently, We indicated that the socioeconomic changes had a larger impact on water withdrawal and consumption for electricity generation, compared with the climate mitigation changes represented by the climate mitigation scenarios.

Description: Recent changes in terrestrial water storage in the Upper Nile Basin: an evaluation of commonly used gridded GRACE products Mohammad Shamsudduha, Richard G. Taylor, Darren Jones, Laurent Longuevergne, Michael Owor, and Callist Tindimugaya Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-146,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) This study tests the ability of five commonly used GRACE satellite datasets to measure a large and accurately observed reduction in water storage of 75 km 3 that occurred in the Lake Victoria Basin of East Africa from 2004 to 2006. Substantial differences among the datasets to represent the amplitude of this change in the total terrestrial water storage are revealed. Resolving changes in groundwater storage specifically from GRACE data is hindered by uncertainty in simulated soil moisture data.

Description: Identification of dominant hydrogeochemical processes for groundwaters in the Algerian Sahara supported by inverse modeling of chemical and isotopic data Rabia Slimani, Abdelhamid Guendouz, Fabienne Trolard, Adnane Souffi Moulla, Belhadj Hamdi-Aïssa, and Guilhem Bourrié Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1669-1691, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1669-2017, 2017 Unpublished chemical and isotopic data taken in November 1992 from the three major Saharan aquifers, namely the Continental Intercalaire (CI), the Complexe Terminal (CT) and the phreatic aquifer (Phr), were integrated with original samples in order to chemically and isotopically characterize the largest Saharan aquifer system and investigate the processes through which groundwaters acquire their mineralization. Instead of classical Debye–Hückel extended law, a specific interaction theory (SIT) model, recently incorporated in PHREEQC 3.0, was used. Inverse modeling of hydrochemical data constrained by isotopic data was used here to quantitatively assess the influence of geochemical processes: at depth, the dissolution of salts from the geological formations during upward leakage without evaporation explains the transitions from CI to CT and to a first end member, a cluster of Phr (cluster I); near the surface, the dissolution of salts from sabkhas by rainwater explains another cluster of Phr (cluster II). In every case, secondary precipitation of calcite occurs during dissolution. All Phr waters result from the mixing of these two clusters together with calcite precipitation and ion exchange processes. These processes are quantitatively assessed by the PHREEQC model. Globally, gypsum dissolution and calcite precipitation were found to act as a carbon sink.

Description: Using street view imagery for 3D survey of rock slope failures Jérémie Voumard, Antonio Abellan, Pierrick Nicolet, Marie-Aurélie Chanut, Marc-Henri Derron, and Michel Jaboyedoff Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-49,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) We discuss here the challenges and limitations on surveying rock slope failures using 3D reconstruction from images acquired from Street View Imagery (SVI) and processed with modern photogrammetric workflows. Despite some clear limitations and challenges, this manuscript demonstrates that this original approach might allow obtaining preliminary 3D models of an area without on-field images. Furthermore, the pre-failure topography can be obtained for sites where it would not be available otherwise.

Description: Using street view imagery for 3D survey of rock slope failures Jérémie Voumard, Antonio Abellan, Pierrick Nicolet, Marie-Aurélie Chanut, Marc-Henri Derron, and Michel Jaboyedoff Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-49,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) We discuss here the challenges and limitations on surveying rock slope failures using 3D reconstruction from images acquired from Street View Imagery (SVI) and processed with modern photogrammetric workflows. Despite some clear limitations and challenges, this manuscript demonstrates that this original approach might allow obtaining preliminary 3D models of an area without on-field images. Furthermore, the pre-failure topography can be obtained for sites where it would not be available otherwise.

Description: Book review: Wildlife in the Anthropocene – Conservation after Nature Isabelle Arpin Geogr. Helv., 72, 79-80, doi:10.5194/gh-72-79-2017, 2017 No abstract available.

Description: The Future of Earth Observation in Hydrology Matthew F. McCabe, Matthew Rodell, Douglas E. Alsdorf, Diego G. Miralles, Remko Uijlenhoet, Wolfgang Wagner, Arko Lucieer, Rasmus Houborg, Niko E. C. Verhoest, Trenton E. Franz, Jiancheng Shi, Huilin Gao, and Eric F. Wood Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-54,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) We examine the opportunities and challenges that technological advances in Earth observation will present to the hydrological community. From advanced space-based sensors, to unmanned aerial vehicles and ground-based distributed networks, these emergent systems are set to revolutionise our understanding and interpretation of hydrological and related processes.

Description: The Future of Earth Observation in Hydrology Matthew F. McCabe, Matthew Rodell, Douglas E. Alsdorf, Diego G. Miralles, Remko Uijlenhoet, Wolfgang Wagner, Arko Lucieer, Rasmus Houborg, Niko E. C. Verhoest, Trenton E. Franz, Jiancheng Shi, Huilin Gao, and Eric F. Wood Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-54,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) We examine the opportunities and challenges that technological advances in Earth observation will present to the hydrological community. From advanced space-based sensors, to unmanned aerial vehicles and ground-based distributed networks, these emergent systems are set to revolutionise our understanding and interpretation of hydrological and related processes.

Description: A reconstruction of 1 August 1674 thunderstorms over the Low Countries Gerard van der Schrier and Rob Groenland Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci., 17, 157-170, doi:10.5194/nhess-17-157-2017, 2017 On 1 August 1674, very severe thunderstorms occurred along a squall line from northern France to the northern parts of Holland, where damages were particularly severe. Using reported and pictured observations of damages, a reconstruction of this storm is made and an interpretation using modern meteorological concepts is given. Special attention is given to the city of Utrecht, which was hit hardest and where the impact of this storm is still recognisable in the cityscape.

Description: Soil Moisture Estimation Based on Probabilistic Inversion over Heterogeneous Vegetated Fields Using Airborne PLMR Brightness Temperature Chunfeng Ma, Xin Li, and Shuguo Wang Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-34,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) We present a SM estimation based on the combination of Bayesian probabilistic inversion with airborne L‐band radiometer observations. The work has obtained a desirable SM estimation and uncertainty quantification, which may offer an insight into the future SM inversion based on passive microwave remote sensing.

Description: A GIS-based monitoring and early warning system for cover-collapse sinkholes in karst terrane in Wuhan, China Li Xueping, Xiao Shangde, Tang Huiming, and Peng Jinsheng Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-22,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) A GIS-based monitoring and early warning system for cover-collapse sinkholes in karst terrane in Wuhan, China has been established so as to reduce disastrous losses caused by karst collapse. Three types warning criteria for cover-collapse sinkholes has been established in the system. Three levels have been used to classify the warning grade. Level I refers to the stat safe ; level II refers becoming dangerous ; and level III refers dangerous .

Description: Statistical characteristics of convective wind gusts in Germany Susanna Mohr, Michael Kunz, Alexandra Richter, and Bodo Ruck Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci., 17, 957-969, https://doi.org/10.5194/nhess-17-957-2017, 2017 Due to the small-scale and non-stationary nature of the convective wind gusts usually associated with thunderstorms, there is a considerable lack of knowledge regarding their characteristics and statistics. Thus, we investigated the temporal and spatial distribution, intensity, and return values of those wind events in Germany. The study constitutes a fundamental addition to an improved understanding of convective wind gusts and serves as basis for further risk assessments.

Description: Statistical characteristics of convective wind gusts in Germany Susanna Mohr, Michael Kunz, Alexandra Richter, and Bodo Ruck Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci., 17, 957-969, https://doi.org/10.5194/nhess-17-957-2017, 2017 Due to the small-scale and non-stationary nature of the convective wind gusts usually associated with thunderstorms, there is a considerable lack of knowledge regarding their characteristics and statistics. Thus, we investigated the temporal and spatial distribution, intensity, and return values of those wind events in Germany. The study constitutes a fundamental addition to an improved understanding of convective wind gusts and serves as basis for further risk assessments.

Description: Reanalysis of a 10-year record (2004–2013) of seasonal mass balances at Langenferner/Vedretta Lunga, Ortler Alps, Italy Stephan Peter Galos, Christoph Klug, Fabien Maussion, Federico Covi, Lindsey Nicholson, Lorenzo Rieg, Wolfgang Gurgiser, Thomas Mölg, and Georg Kaser The Cryosphere, 11, 1417-1439, https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-11-1417-2017, 2017 Records of glacier mass balance represent important data in climate science and their uncertainties affect calculations of sea level rise and other societally relevant environmental projections. In order to reduce and quantify uncertainties in mass balance series obtained by direct glaciological measurements, we present a detailed reanalysis workflow which was applied to the 10-year record (2004 to 2013) of seasonal mass balance of Langenferner, a small glacier in the European Eastern Alps. The approach involves a methodological homogenization of available point values and the creation of pseudo-observations of point mass balance for years and locations without measurements by the application of a process-based model constrained by snow line observations. We examine the uncertainties related to the extrapolation of point data using a variety of methods and consequently present a more rigorous uncertainty assessment than is usually reported in the literature. Results reveal that the reanalyzed balance record considerably differs from the original one mainly for the first half of the observation period. For annual balances these misfits reach the order of  〉 300 kg m −2 and could primarily be attributed to a lack of measurements in the upper glacier part and to the use of outdated glacier outlines. For winter balances respective differences are smaller (up to 233 kg m −2 ) and they originate primarily from methodological inhomogeneities in the original series. Remaining random uncertainties in the reanalyzed series are mainly determined by the extrapolation of point data to the glacier scale and are on the order of ±79 kg m −2 for annual and ±52 kg m −2 for winter balances with values for single years/seasons reaching ±136 kg m −2 . A comparison of the glaciological results to those obtained by the geodetic method for the period 2005 to 2013 based on airborne laser-scanning data reveals that no significant bias of the reanalyzed record is detectable.

Description: Reanalysis of a 10-year record (2004–2013) of seasonal mass balances at Langenferner/Vedretta Lunga, Ortler Alps, Italy Stephan Peter Galos, Christoph Klug, Fabien Maussion, Federico Covi, Lindsey Nicholson, Lorenzo Rieg, Wolfgang Gurgiser, Thomas Mölg, and Georg Kaser The Cryosphere, 11, 1417-1439, https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-11-1417-2017, 2017 Records of glacier mass balance represent important data in climate science and their uncertainties affect calculations of sea level rise and other societally relevant environmental projections. In order to reduce and quantify uncertainties in mass balance series obtained by direct glaciological measurements, we present a detailed reanalysis workflow which was applied to the 10-year record (2004 to 2013) of seasonal mass balance of Langenferner, a small glacier in the European Eastern Alps. The approach involves a methodological homogenization of available point values and the creation of pseudo-observations of point mass balance for years and locations without measurements by the application of a process-based model constrained by snow line observations. We examine the uncertainties related to the extrapolation of point data using a variety of methods and consequently present a more rigorous uncertainty assessment than is usually reported in the literature. Results reveal that the reanalyzed balance record considerably differs from the original one mainly for the first half of the observation period. For annual balances these misfits reach the order of  〉 300 kg m −2 and could primarily be attributed to a lack of measurements in the upper glacier part and to the use of outdated glacier outlines. For winter balances respective differences are smaller (up to 233 kg m −2 ) and they originate primarily from methodological inhomogeneities in the original series. Remaining random uncertainties in the reanalyzed series are mainly determined by the extrapolation of point data to the glacier scale and are on the order of ±79 kg m −2 for annual and ±52 kg m −2 for winter balances with values for single years/seasons reaching ±136 kg m −2 . A comparison of the glaciological results to those obtained by the geodetic method for the period 2005 to 2013 based on airborne laser-scanning data reveals that no significant bias of the reanalyzed record is detectable.

Description: The challenge of forecasting impacts of flash floods: test of a simplified hydraulic approach and validation based on insurance claim data Guillaume Le Bihan, Olivier Payrastre, Eric Gaume, David Moncoulon, and Frederic Pons Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., https//doi.org/10.5194/hess-2017-344,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) This paper illustrates how an integrated flash flood monitoring (or forecasting) system may be designed to directly provide information on possibly flooded areas and associated impacts on a very detailed river network and over large territories. The approach is extensively tested in the regions of Alès and Draguignan, located in south-eastern France. Validation results are presented in terms of accuracy of the estimated flood extents and related impacts (based on insurance claim data).

Description: The challenge of forecasting impacts of flash floods: test of a simplified hydraulic approach and validation based on insurance claim data Guillaume Le Bihan, Olivier Payrastre, Eric Gaume, David Moncoulon, and Frederic Pons Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., https//doi.org/10.5194/hess-2017-344,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) This paper illustrates how an integrated flash flood monitoring (or forecasting) system may be designed to directly provide information on possibly flooded areas and associated impacts on a very detailed river network and over large territories. The approach is extensively tested in the regions of Alès and Draguignan, located in south-eastern France. Validation results are presented in terms of accuracy of the estimated flood extents and related impacts (based on insurance claim data).

Description: Water footprint of crop production for different crop structures in the Hebei southern plain, North China Yingmin Chu, Yanjun Shen, and Zaijian Yuan Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 3061-3069, https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-21-3061-2017, 2017 In this study, we analyzed the water footprint (WF) of crop production and found winter wheat, summer maize and vegetables were the top water-consuming crops in the Hebei southern plain (HSP). The total WF, WFblue, WFgreen and WFgrey for 13 years (2000–2012) of crop production were 604.8, 288.5, 141.3 and 175.0 km 3 , respectively, with an annual downtrend from 2000 to 2012. Finally, we evaluated a reasonable farming structure by analyzing scenarios of the main crops' WF.

Description: Water–food–energy nexus with changing agricultural scenarios in India during recent decades Beas Barik, Subimal Ghosh, A. Saheer Sahana, Amey Pathak, and Muddu Sekhar Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 3041-3060, https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-21-3041-2017, 2017 The article summarises changing patterns of the water-food-energy nexus in India during recent decades. The work first analyses satellite data of water storage with a validation using the observed well data. Northern India shows a declining trend of water storage and western-central India shows an increasing trend of the same. Major droughts result in a drop in water storage which is not recovered due to uncontrolled ground water irrigation for agricultural activities even in good monsoon years.

Description: Water footprint of crop production for different crop structures in the Hebei southern plain, North China Yingmin Chu, Yanjun Shen, and Zaijian Yuan Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 3061-3069, https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-21-3061-2017, 2017 In this study, we analyzed the water footprint (WF) of crop production and found winter wheat, summer maize and vegetables were the top water-consuming crops in the Hebei southern plain (HSP). The total WF, WFblue, WFgreen and WFgrey for 13 years (2000–2012) of crop production were 604.8, 288.5, 141.3 and 175.0 km 3 , respectively, with an annual downtrend from 2000 to 2012. Finally, we evaluated a reasonable farming structure by analyzing scenarios of the main crops' WF.

Description: Monitoring surface water quality using social media in the context of citizen science Hang Zheng, Yang Hong, Di Long, and Hua Jing Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 949-961, doi:10.5194/hess-21-949-2017, 2017 Do you feel angry if the river in your living place is polluted by industries? Do you want to do something to save your environment? Just log in to http://www.thuhjjc.com and use the Tsinghua Environment Monitoring Platform (TEMP) to photograph the water pollution actives and make your report. This study established a social media platform to monitor and report surface water quality. The effectiveness of the platform was demonstrated by the 324 water quality reports across 30 provinces in China.

Description: Examining regional groundwater–surface water dynamics using an integrated hydrologic model of the San Joaquin River basin James M. Gilbert and Reed M. Maxwell Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 923-947, doi:10.5194/hess-21-923-2017, 2017 Understanding how groundwater and streamflow interact over large areas is a challenge. In this study we use a computer simulation that calculates water movement and storage at the land surface and in the subsurface within California's San Joaquin River basin to analyze different parts of the watershed. Results show that the mountains may be an important source of groundwater to the Central Valley while differences in relative speed of groundwater and river flow affect their connection patterns.

Description: An adaptive two-stage analog/regression model for probabilistic prediction of local precipitation in France Jérémy Chardon, Benoit Hingray, and Anne-Catherine Favre Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-62,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) We present a hybrid Statistical Downscaling Model for the probabilistic prediction of local precipitation, where the downscaling statistical link is estimated from atmospheric circulation analogs of the current prediction day. The model allows for a day-to-day adaptive and tailored downscaling. It can reveal specific predictors for peculiar and non-frequent weather configurations. This approach noticeably improves the skill of the prediction for both precipitation occurrence and quantity.

Description: Hydrological connectivity from glaciers to rivers in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau: roles of suprapermafrost and subpermafrost groundwater Rui Ma, Ziyong Sun, Yalu Hu, Qixing Chang, Shuo Wang, Wenle Xin, and Mengyan Ge Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-7,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The role of permafrost/seasonal frost in groundwater flow systems is important in the hydrological cycles of cold regions and poorly known. We investigated the role of permafrost in controlling groundwater flow and hydrological connections between glaciers and river. The recharge, flow path and discharge of permafrost groundwater at the study site were explored. We proposed two mechanisms to explain the significantly seasonal variation in interaction between groundwater and surface water.

Description: Models for polythermal ice sheets and glaciers Ian J. Hewitt and Christian Schoof The Cryosphere, 11, 541-551, doi:10.5194/tc-11-541-2017, 2017 Many glaciers contain ice both below and at the melting temperature. Predicting the evolution of temperature and water content in such ice masses is important because they exert a strong control on the flow of the ice. We present two new models to calculate these quantities, demonstrate a number of example numerical calculations, and compare the results with existing methods. The novelty of the new methods is the inclusion of gravity-driven water transport within the ice.

Description: Models for polythermal ice sheets and glaciers Ian J. Hewitt and Christian Schoof The Cryosphere, 11, 541-551, doi:10.5194/tc-11-541-2017, 2017 Many glaciers contain ice both below and at the melting temperature. Predicting the evolution of temperature and water content in such ice masses is important because they exert a strong control on the flow of the ice. We present two new models to calculate these quantities, demonstrate a number of example numerical calculations, and compare the results with existing methods. The novelty of the new methods is the inclusion of gravity-driven water transport within the ice.

Description: Brief communication: Glaciers in the Hunza catchment (Karakoram) have been nearly in balance since the 1970s Tobias Bolch, Tino Pieczonka, Kriti Mukherjee, and Joseph Shea The Cryosphere, 11, 531-539, doi:10.5194/tc-11-531-2017, 2017 Previous geodetic estimates of glacier mass changes in the Karakoram have revealed balanced budgets or a possible slight mass gain since the year ∼  2000. We used old US reconnaissance imagery and could show that glaciers in the Hunza River basin (Central Karakoram) experienced on average no significant mass changes also since the 1970s. Likewise the glaciers had heterogeneous behaviour with frequent surge activities during the last 40 years.

Description: Remapping annual precipitation in mountainous areas based on vegetation patterns: a case study in the Nu River basin Xing Zhou, Guang-Heng Ni, Chen Shen, and Ting Sun Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 999-1015, doi:10.5194/hess-21-999-2017, 2017 We develop a fusion framework to improve precipitation estimation by jointly utilizing the gauge precipitation and vegetation index and then applying them to mountainous areas of the Nu River basin. The results demonstrate the reliability of the framework in reproducing the high-resolution precipitation regime and capturing its high spatial variability in the Nu River basin. The framework can significantly reduce the errors in precipitation estimates as compared with the IDW and TRMM methods.

Description: Remapping annual precipitation in mountainous areas based on vegetation patterns: a case study in the Nu River basin Xing Zhou, Guang-Heng Ni, Chen Shen, and Ting Sun Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 999-1015, doi:10.5194/hess-21-999-2017, 2017 We develop a fusion framework to improve precipitation estimation by jointly utilizing the gauge precipitation and vegetation index and then applying them to mountainous areas of the Nu River basin. The results demonstrate the reliability of the framework in reproducing the high-resolution precipitation regime and capturing its high spatial variability in the Nu River basin. The framework can significantly reduce the errors in precipitation estimates as compared with the IDW and TRMM methods.

Description: Comparison of performance of tile drainage routines in SWAT 2009 and 2012 in an extensively tile-drained watershed in the Midwest Tian Guo, Margaret Gitau, Venkatesh Merwade, Jeffrey Arnold, Raghavan Srinivasan, Michael Hirschi, and Bernard Engel Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-52,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The new tile drainage routine in SWAT model provided more realistic and accurate simulation of tile drainage, and the new curve number retention parameter adjustment factor improved surface runoff simulation, and is suitable for surface runoff simulation in mildly-sloped watersheds. This study can provide guidance for selection of tile drainage routines for tile drainage simulation, and can allow accurate simulation of hydrologic systems at both field and watershed scales.

Description: Water yield following forest–grass–forest transitions Katherine J. Elliott, Peter V. Caldwell, Steven T. Brantley, Chelcy F. Miniat, James M. Vose, and Wayne T. Swank Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 981-997, doi:10.5194/hess-21-981-2017, 2017 Our long-term results are relevant to land areas that are in pasture and those that have reverted back to forests. We found that within a deciduous forest, species identity matters in terms of how much precipitation leaves the watershed as evapotranspiration versus water yield. We demonstrate that a shift in tree species composition from species with ring-porous xylem to species with diffuse-porous xylem can increase water use, and in turn, produce a long-term reduction in water yield.

Description: Water resources in the Badain Jaran Desert, China: New insight from isotopes Xiujie Wu, Xu-Sheng Wang, Yang Wang, and Bill X. Hu Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2016-692,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) It is critical to identify the origins of water in arid and semi-arid regions for management and protection of the water resources. D , 18 O, 3 H and 14 C in water samples from the Badain Jaran Desert, China, were analyzed. The results show that groundwater supplies the lakes and groundwater is originated from local precipitation and adjacent mountains. Negative d -excess values of water in the area were the result of evaporation. The 14 C ages do not represent the residence time of local groundwater.

Description: Improving SWAT model performance in the Upper Blue Nile River Basin using meteorological data integration and catchment scaling Erwin Isaac Polanco, Amr Fleifle, Ralf Ludwig, and Markus Disse Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2016-664,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The Upper Blue Nile River Basin is confronted by land degradation problems, insufficient agricultural production, and limited number of developed energy sources. Process-based hydrological models provide useful tools to better understand such complex systems and improve water resources and land management practices. In this study, SWAT was used to model the hydrological processes in the Upper Blue Nile River Basin. The calibration was done in such a way that the parameterization had a realistic representation of the interaction of land cover and soils properties. Comparisons between a Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR) and a ground weather dataset were done under two subbasin discretizations (30 and 87 subbasins) to create an integrated dataset to improve the spatial and temporal limitations of both datsets. A SWAT Error Index (SEI) was also proposed to compare the reliability of the models under different discretization levels and weather datasets. This index offers an assessment of the model quality based on precipitation and evapotranspiration. SEI demonstrates to be a reliable and useful method to measure the level of error of SWAT and develop better models. The results showed the discrepancies of using different weather datasets with different levels of subbasin discretization. Datasets under 30 subbasins achieved Nash-Sutcliff (NS) values of 0.15, 0.68 and 0.82; while models under 87 subbasins achieved values of 0.05, 0.61, and 0.84, for the CFSR, ground and integrated datasets, respectively. Based on the parameterization, the integrated dataset provided more reliable results and a more realistic representation of the land use and soil conditions of this region.

Description: Heidegger, the politics of space, and the space of politics Florian Grosser Geogr. Helv., 72, 93-96, doi:10.5194/gh-72-93-2017, 2017 No abstract available.

Description: Marginal cost curves for water footprint reduction in irrigated agriculture: guiding a cost-effective reduction of crop water consumption to a benchmark or permit level Abebe D. Chukalla, Maarten S. Krol, and Arjen Y. Hoekstra Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-63,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) In the current study, we have developed a method to obtain marginal cost curves (MCCs) for WF reduction in crop production. The method is innovative by employing a model that combines soil water balance accounting and a crop growth model and assessing costs and WF reduction for all combinations of irrigation techniques, irrigation strategies and mulching practices. While this approach has been used in the field of constructing MCCs for carbon footprint reduction, this has never been done before.

Description: Daily Landsat-scale evapotranspiration estimation over a forested landscape in North Carolina, USA, using multi-satellite data fusion Yun Yang, Martha C. Anderson, Feng Gao, Christopher R. Hain, Kathryn A. Semmens, William P. Kustas, Asko Noormets, Randolph H. Wynne, Valerie A. Thomas, and Ge Sun Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1017-1037, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1017-2017, 2017 This work explores the utility of a thermal remote sensing based MODIS/Landsat ET data fusion procedure over a mixed forested/agricultural landscape in North Carolina, USA. The daily ET retrieved at 30 m resolution agreed well with measured fluxes in a clear-cut and a mature pine stand. An accounting of consumptive water use by land cover classes is presented, as well as relative partitioning of ET between evaporation ( E ) and transpiration ( T ) components.

Description: Identification of runoff formation with two dyes in a mid-latitude mountain headwater Lukáš Vlček, Philipp Schneider, and Kristýna Falátková Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-77,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The role of mountain headwater area in hydrological cycle was investigated at two opposite hillslopes covered by mineral and organic soils. Similarities and differences in percolation and preferential flowpaths between the hillslopes were identified by sprinkling experiments with Brilliant Blue and Fluorescein. The dye solutions infiltrated into the soil and continued either as lateral subsurface pipeflow (organic soil), or percolated vertically towards the bedrock (mineral soil).

Description: Geostatistical upscaling of rain gauge data to support uncertainty analysis of lumped urban hydrological models Manoranjan Muthusamy, Alma Schellart, Simon Tait, and Gerard B. M. Heuvelink Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1077-1091, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1077-2017, 2017 In this study we develop a method to estimate the spatially averaged rainfall intensity together with associated level of uncertainty using geostatistical upscaling. Rainfall data collected from a cluster of eight paired rain gauges in a small urban catchment are used in this study. Results show that the prediction uncertainty comes mainly from two sources: spatial variability of rainfall and measurement error. Results from this study can be used for uncertainty analyses of hydrologic modelling.

Description: A case study of field-scale maize irrigation patterns in western Nebraska: implications for water managers and recommendations for hyper-resolution land surface modeling Justin Gibson, Trenton E. Franz, Tiejun Wang, John Gates, Patricio Grassini, Haishun Yang, and Dean Eisenhauer Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1051-1062, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1051-2017, 2017 The human use of water for irrigation is often ignored in models and operational forecasts. We describe four plausible and relatively simple irrigation routines that can be coupled to the next generation of models. The routines are tested against a unique irrigation dataset from western Nebraska. The most aggressive water-saving irrigation routine indicates a potential irrigation savings of 120 mm yr −1 and yield losses of less than 3 % against the crop model benchmark and historical averages.

Description: On the consistency of scale among experiments, theory, and simulation James E. McClure, Amanda L. Dye, Cass T. Miller, and William G. Gray Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1063-1076, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1063-2017, 2017 A complicating factor in describing the flow of two immiscible fluids in a porous medium is ensuring that experiments, theory, and simulation are all formulated at the same length scale. We have quantitatively analyzed the internal structure of a two-fluid system including the distribution of phases and the location of interfaces between phases. The data we have obtained allow for a clearer definition of capillary pressure at the averaged scale as a state function that describes the system.

Description: Geostatistical upscaling of rain gauge data to support uncertainty analysis of lumped urban hydrological models Manoranjan Muthusamy, Alma Schellart, Simon Tait, and Gerard B. M. Heuvelink Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1077-1091, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1077-2017, 2017 In this study we develop a method to estimate the spatially averaged rainfall intensity together with associated level of uncertainty using geostatistical upscaling. Rainfall data collected from a cluster of eight paired rain gauges in a small urban catchment are used in this study. Results show that the prediction uncertainty comes mainly from two sources: spatial variability of rainfall and measurement error. Results from this study can be used for uncertainty analyses of hydrologic modelling.

Description: On the consistency of scale among experiments, theory, and simulation James E. McClure, Amanda L. Dye, Cass T. Miller, and William G. Gray Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1063-1076, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1063-2017, 2017 A complicating factor in describing the flow of two immiscible fluids in a porous medium is ensuring that experiments, theory, and simulation are all formulated at the same length scale. We have quantitatively analyzed the internal structure of a two-fluid system including the distribution of phases and the location of interfaces between phases. The data we have obtained allow for a clearer definition of capillary pressure at the averaged scale as a state function that describes the system.

Description: Modeling nitrate from land-surface to wells' perforations under agricultural land: success, failure, and future scenarios in a Mediterranean case study Yehuda Levy, Roi H. Shapira, Benny Chefetz, and Daniel Kurtzman Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-55,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Nitrate-nitrogen is a groundwater contaminant worldwide, that originates commonly from agricultural fertilization. In this work, we built a computer model which follows the fate of nitrogen from land surface to deep (~ 100 m) and distant (~ km) groundwater wells. The model succeeded estimating total groundwater nitrate, yet failed to point-estimate contaminated wells, extra assumptions fixed it. This enabled prediction of future groundwater-nitrate which revealed the need to reduce fertilization.

Description: Rapid surface-water volume estimations in beaver ponds Daniel J. Karran, Cherie J. Westbrook, Joseph M. Wheaton, Carol A. Johnston, and Angela Bedard-Haughn Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1039-1050, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1039-2017, 2017 Beaver ponds are found in many landscapes and their transient nature makes it difficult to account for the surface water they store using traditional methods. We found that reliable estimates of surface water storage in beaver ponds can be made with simple measurements of pond depth and surface area. This makes it possible for hydrologists and environmental managers to include beaver ponds in models and land use planning decisions without the need for resource intensive topographic surveys.

Description: Rapid surface-water volume estimations in beaver ponds Daniel J. Karran, Cherie J. Westbrook, Joseph M. Wheaton, Carol A. Johnston, and Angela Bedard-Haughn Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1039-1050, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1039-2017, 2017 Beaver ponds are found in many landscapes and their transient nature makes it difficult to account for the surface water they store using traditional methods. We found that reliable estimates of surface water storage in beaver ponds can be made with simple measurements of pond depth and surface area. This makes it possible for hydrologists and environmental managers to include beaver ponds in models and land use planning decisions without the need for resource intensive topographic surveys.

Description: Modeling nitrate from land-surface to wells' perforations under agricultural land: success, failure, and future scenarios in a Mediterranean case study Yehuda Levy, Roi H. Shapira, Benny Chefetz, and Daniel Kurtzman Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-55,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Nitrate-nitrogen is a groundwater contaminant worldwide, that originates commonly from agricultural fertilization. In this work, we built a computer model which follows the fate of nitrogen from land surface to deep (~ 100 m) and distant (~ km) groundwater wells. The model succeeded estimating total groundwater nitrate, yet failed to point-estimate contaminated wells, extra assumptions fixed it. This enabled prediction of future groundwater-nitrate which revealed the need to reduce fertilization.

Description: A case study of field-scale maize irrigation patterns in western Nebraska: implications for water managers and recommendations for hyper-resolution land surface modeling Justin Gibson, Trenton E. Franz, Tiejun Wang, John Gates, Patricio Grassini, Haishun Yang, and Dean Eisenhauer Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1051-1062, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1051-2017, 2017 The human use of water for irrigation is often ignored in models and operational forecasts. We describe four plausible and relatively simple irrigation routines that can be coupled to the next generation of models. The routines are tested against a unique irrigation dataset from western Nebraska. The most aggressive water-saving irrigation routine indicates a potential irrigation savings of 120 mm yr −1 and yield losses of less than 3 % against the crop model benchmark and historical averages.

Description: Design Considerations of Artificial Mangrove Embankments for Mitigating Coastal Floods – Adapting to Sea-level Rise and Long-term Subsidence Hiroshi Takagi Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-61,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The function of mangrove embankments in attenuating tides was investigated. The developed model is capable of simulating tides over an artificial platform, which changes its ground level because of SLR, subsidence, vegetation growth and sediment accretion. An embankment without considering geomorphological transitions will be submerged, resulting in no tidal damping, whereas high tides could be mitigated if an equilibrium state can be maintained among these influences over the long term.

Description: Design Considerations of Artificial Mangrove Embankments for Mitigating Coastal Floods – Adapting to Sea-level Rise and Long-term Subsidence Hiroshi Takagi Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-61,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The function of mangrove embankments in attenuating tides was investigated. The developed model is capable of simulating tides over an artificial platform, which changes its ground level because of SLR, subsidence, vegetation growth and sediment accretion. An embankment without considering geomorphological transitions will be submerged, resulting in no tidal damping, whereas high tides could be mitigated if an equilibrium state can be maintained among these influences over the long term.

Description: A Procedure to Select Earthquake Time Histories for Deterministic Seismic Hazard Analysis: Case Studies of Major Cities in Taiwan Duruo Huang and Wenqi Du Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-33,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) In this paper, a detailed procedure to select proper acceleration time histories for several cities in Taiwan is presented. These suites of ground motions are representatives of regional seismic hazards and can be used in perforamce-based design of key infrastructures.

Description: A Procedure to Select Earthquake Time Histories for Deterministic Seismic Hazard Analysis: Case Studies of Major Cities in Taiwan Duruo Huang and Wenqi Du Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-33,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) In this paper, a detailed procedure to select proper acceleration time histories for several cities in Taiwan is presented. These suites of ground motions are representatives of regional seismic hazards and can be used in perforamce-based design of key infrastructures.

Description: Experimental observation of transient δ 18 O interaction between snow and advective airflow under various temperature gradient conditions Pirmin P. Ebner, Hans Christian Steen-Larsen, Barbara Stenni, Martin Schneebeli, and Aldo Steinfeld The Cryosphere Discuss., doi:10.5194/tc-2017-16,2017 Manuscript under review for TC (discussion: open, 0 comments) Stable water isotopes (δ 18 O) obtained from snow and ice samples from polar regions are used to reconstruct past climate variability. We present an experimental study on the effect on the snow isotopic composition by airflow through a snowpack in controlled laboratory conditions. The disequilibrium between snow and vapor isotopes changed the isotopic content of the snow. These measurements suggest that the history of metamorphism affects the snow isotopic composition.

Description: Stable isotopes reveal evaporation dynamics at the soil-plant-atmosphere interface of the critical zone Matthias Sprenger, Doerthe Tetzlaff, and Chris Soulsby Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-87,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) We sampled the isotopic composition in the top 20 cm at four different sites in the Scottish Highlands in 5 cm intervals over one year. The relationship between the soil water isotopic fractionation and evapotranspiration showed a hysteresis pattern due to a lag response to on- and offset of the evaporative losses. The isotope data revealed that vegetation had a significant influence on the soil evaporation with evaporation being double from soils beneath Scots pine compared to heather.

Description: The internal seiche field in the changing South Aral Sea (2006–2013) Elena Roget, Elizaveta Khimchenko, Francesc Forcat, and Peter Zavialov Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1093-1105, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1093-2017, 2017 This is the first work on the internal seiches of the South Aral Sea, which is also of general interest as the lake is considered a paradigm for the lakes whose surface levels are decreasing. It is based on field data and numerical simulations. For autumn 2006 and 2013, the fundamental mode is discussed together with other modes which are found to be higher vertical modes. The importance of sea level variation on the development of higher horizontal modes is also discussed.

Description: Does objective cluster analysis serve as a useful precursor to seasonal precipitation prediction at local scale? Application to western Ethiopia Ying Zhang, Semu Moges, and Paul Block Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-70,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Prediction of seasonal precipitation can provide actionable information to guide management of various sectoral activities. For instance, it is often translated into hydrological forecasts for better water resources management. However, many studies assume homogeneity in precipitation across an entire study region, which may prove ineffective for operational and local-level decisions, particularly for locations with high spatial variability. This study proposes advancing local-level seasonal precipitation predictions by first conditioning on regional-level predictions, as defined through objective cluster analysis, for western Ethiopia. To our knowledge, this is the first study predicting seasonal precipitation at high resolution in this region, where lives and livelihoods are vulnerable to precipitation variability given the high reliance on rain-fed agriculture and limited water resources infrastructure. The combination of objective cluster analysis, spatially high-resolution prediction of seasonal precipitation, and a modeling structure spanning statistical and dynamical approaches makes clear advances in prediction skill and resolution, as compared with previous studies.

Description: Stable isotopes reveal evaporation dynamics at the soil-plant-atmosphere interface of the critical zone Matthias Sprenger, Doerthe Tetzlaff, and Chris Soulsby Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-87,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) We sampled the isotopic composition in the top 20 cm at four different sites in the Scottish Highlands in 5 cm intervals over one year. The relationship between the soil water isotopic fractionation and evapotranspiration showed a hysteresis pattern due to a lag response to on- and offset of the evaporative losses. The isotope data revealed that vegetation had a significant influence on the soil evaporation with evaporation being double from soils beneath Scots pine compared to heather.

Description: Slope stability and rock fall hazard assessment of volcanic tuffs using RPAS and TLS with 2D FEM slope modelling Ákos Török, Árpád Barsi, Gyula Bögöly, Tamás Lovas, Árpád Somogyi, and Péter Görög Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-56,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The present study demonstrates the application of drones and terrestrial laser scanner in stability assessment of steep, hardly accessible rock slopes that can endanger human lives. If the focus is on hazard evaluation, these technologies must be deployed very quickly, but data processing requires time. For reliable hazard evaluation besides these techniques, engineering geological field work and laboratory tests of the mechanical properties of rocks are also necessary.

Description: Measuring and Characterizing Community Recovery to Earthquake: the Case of 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake, China Jie Liu, Zhenwu Shi, Di Lu, and Yongliang Wang Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-72,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Our research defined community recovery as the capacity to recover and rebuild itself rapidly to an acceptable level of functioning and structure following the earthquake disasters occur, and developed a quantitative approach for measuring and characterizing the community recovery in four dimensions to guide planning of appropriate response and reconstruction policies, and emphasizing that the community recovery is strongly influenced by the decision making of local governments.

Description: Brief Communication: A low cost Arduino®-based wire extensometer for earth flow monitoring Luigi Guerriero, Giovanni Guerriero, Gerardo Grelle, Francesco M. Guadagno, and Paola Revellino Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/nhess-2017-79,2017 Manuscript under review for NHESS (discussion: open, 1 comment) In this paper we present a new Arduino-based wire extensometer developed to provide a low-cost autonomous platform for continuous monitoring of landslides. The system integrates a datalogger, a power system, a high precision position transducer, and has multiple digital and analog inputs. Our field test indicates a high reliability of the measurement and a high monitoring stability without visible thermal drift. The onboard temperature sensor might be used to correct/identify thermal drifting.

Description: Systematic shifts in Budyko relationships caused by groundwater storage changes Laura E. Condon and Reed M. Maxwell Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1117-1135, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1117-2017, 2017 We evaluate the impact of groundwater–surface water exchanges on the fraction of precipitation that leaves a watershed as either surface runoff or evapotranspiration. Results show that groundwater storage can systematically influence watershed behavior at the land surface. This is an important finding because most studies of tradeoffs between runoff and evapotranspiration assume that watersheds are in a steady-state condition where there are no net exchanges between the surface and subsurface.

Description: Impact of model structure on flow simulation and hydrological realism: from lumped to semi-distributed approach Federico Garavaglia, Matthieu Le Lay, Fréderic Gottardi, Rémy Garçon, Joël Gailhard, Emmanuel Paquet, and Thibault Mathevet Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-82,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Model intercomparison experiments are widely used to investigate and improve hydrological model performances. However, a study based only on runoff simulation is not sufficient to discriminate different model structures. Hence, there is a need to improve hydrological models for specific signatures of streamflow (e.g. low and high flow) and multivariable predictions (e.g. soil moisture, snow and groundwater). This study assesses the impact of model structure on flow simulation and hydrological realism using three versions of an hydrological model called MORDOR: the historical lumped structure and a revisited formulation inflected for lumped and semi-distributed structures. In particular, the main goal of this paper is to investigate the relative impact of model equations and spatial discretization on flow simulation, snowpack representation and evapotranspiration estimate. The models comparison is based on an extensive dataset composed of 50 catchments located in French mountainous regions. The evaluation framework is founded on a multi-criteria split sample strategy. All models were calibrated using an automatic optimization method based on an efficient genetic algorithm. The evaluation framework is enriched by the assessment of snow and evapotranspiration modeling against in-situ and satellite data. The results showed that the new model formulations perform significantly better than the initial one in terms of the various streamflow signatures, snow and evapotranspiration predictions. The semi-distributed approach provides better calibration-validation performances for snow cover area, snow water equivalent and runoff simulation especially for nival catchments.

Description: Impact of model structure on flow simulation and hydrological realism: from lumped to semi-distributed approach Federico Garavaglia, Matthieu Le Lay, Fréderic Gottardi, Rémy Garçon, Joël Gailhard, Emmanuel Paquet, and Thibault Mathevet Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-82,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Model intercomparison experiments are widely used to investigate and improve hydrological model performances. However, a study based only on runoff simulation is not sufficient to discriminate different model structures. Hence, there is a need to improve hydrological models for specific signatures of streamflow (e.g. low and high flow) and multivariable predictions (e.g. soil moisture, snow and groundwater). This study assesses the impact of model structure on flow simulation and hydrological realism using three versions of an hydrological model called MORDOR: the historical lumped structure and a revisited formulation inflected for lumped and semi-distributed structures. In particular, the main goal of this paper is to investigate the relative impact of model equations and spatial discretization on flow simulation, snowpack representation and evapotranspiration estimate. The models comparison is based on an extensive dataset composed of 50 catchments located in French mountainous regions. The evaluation framework is founded on a multi-criteria split sample strategy. All models were calibrated using an automatic optimization method based on an efficient genetic algorithm. The evaluation framework is enriched by the assessment of snow and evapotranspiration modeling against in-situ and satellite data. The results showed that the new model formulations perform significantly better than the initial one in terms of the various streamflow signatures, snow and evapotranspiration predictions. The semi-distributed approach provides better calibration-validation performances for snow cover area, snow water equivalent and runoff simulation especially for nival catchments.

Description: Systematic shifts in Budyko relationships caused by groundwater storage changes Laura E. Condon and Reed M. Maxwell Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1117-1135, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1117-2017, 2017 We evaluate the impact of groundwater–surface water exchanges on the fraction of precipitation that leaves a watershed as either surface runoff or evapotranspiration. Results show that groundwater storage can systematically influence watershed behavior at the land surface. This is an important finding because most studies of tradeoffs between runoff and evapotranspiration assume that watersheds are in a steady-state condition where there are no net exchanges between the surface and subsurface.

Description: Distinguishing between old and modern permafrost sources 1 with compound-specific δ 2 H analysis Jorien E. Vonk, Tommaso Tesi, Lisa Bröder, Henry Holmstrand, Gustaf Hugelius, August Andersson, Oleg Dudarev, Igor Semiletov, and Örjan Gustafsson The Cryosphere Discuss., doi:10.5194/tc-2017-17,2017 Manuscript under review for TC (discussion: open, 0 comments) Pleistocene ice complex permafrost deposits contain roughly a quarter of the organic carbon (OC) stored in permafrost terrain. When permafrost thaws, its OC is remobilized into the (aquatic) environment where it is available for degradation, transport or burial. Aquatic or coastal environments contain sedimentary reservoirs that can serve as archives of past climatic change. As permafrost thaw is increasing throughout the Arctic, these reservoirs are important locations to assess the fate of remobilized permafrost OC. We here present compound-specific deuterium (δ 2 H) analysis on leaf waxes as a tool to distinguish between OC released from thawing Pleistocene permafrost (Ice Complex Deposits; ICD) and from thawing Holocene permafrost (from near-surface soils). Bulk geochemistry (%OC, δ 13 C, %total nitrogen; TN) was analyzed as well as the concentrations and δ 2 H signatures of long-chain n -alkanes (C 21 to C 33 ) and mid/long-chain n -alkanoic acids (C 16 to C 30 ) extracted from both ICD-PF samples ( n  = 9) and modern vegetation/O-horizon (Topsoil-PF) samples ( n  = 9) from across the northeast Siberian Arctic. Results show that these Topsoil-PF samples have higher %OC, higher OC/TN values, and more depleted δ 13 C-OC values than ICD-PF samples, suggesting that these former samples trace a fresher soil and/or vegetation source. Median concentrations of high-molecular weight n -alkanes (sum of C 25 -C 27 -C 29 -C 31 ) were 210 ± 350 µg/gOC (median ± IQR) for Topsoil-PF and 250 ± 81 µg/gOC for ICD-PF samples. Long-chain n -alkanoic acids (sum of C 22 -C 24 -C 26 -C 28 ) were more abundant than long-chain n -alkanes, both in Topsoil-PF samples (4700 ± 3400 µg/gOC) and in ICD samples (6630 ± 3500 µg/gOC). Whereas the two investigated sources differ on the bulk geochemical level, they are, however, virtually indistinguishable when using leaf wax concentrations and ratios. However, on the molecular-isotope level, leaf wax biomarker δ 2 H values are statistically different between Topsoil-PF and ICD-PF. The mean δ 2 H value of C 29 n -alkane was −246 ± 13 ‰ (mean ± stdev) for Topsoil-PF and −280 ± 12 ‰ for ICD-PF, whereas the C31 n -alkane was −247 ± 23 ‰ for Topsoil-PF and −297 ± 15 ‰ for ICD-PF. The C 28 n -alkanoic acid δ 2 H value was −220 ± 15 ‰ for Topsoil-PF and −267 ± 16 ‰ for ICD-PF. With a dynamic isotopic range (difference between two sources) of 34 to 50 ‰, the isotopic fingerprints of individual, abundant, biomarker molecules from leaf waxes can thus serve as end-members to distinguish between these two sources. We tested this molecular δ 2 H tracer along with another source-distinguishing approach, dual-carbon (δ 13 C-δ 14 C) isotope composition of bulk OC, for a surface sediment transect in the Laptev Sea. Results show that general offshore patterns along the shelf-slope transect are similar, but the source apportionment between the approaches vary, which may highlight the advantages of either. The δ 2 H molecular approach has the advantage that it circumvents uncertainties related to a marine end-member, yet the δ 13 C-δ 14 C approach has the advantage that it represents the bulk OC fraction thereby avoiding issues related to the molecular-bulk upscaling challenge. This study indicates that the application of δ 2 H leaf wax values has potential to serve as a complementary quantitative measure of the source and differential fate of OC thawed out from different permafrost compartments.

Description: Calving localization at Helheim Glacier using multiple local seismic stations M. Jeffrey Mei, David M. Holland, Sridhar Anandakrishnan, and Tiantian Zheng The Cryosphere, 11, 609-618, doi:10.5194/tc-11-609-2017, 2017 We determine a method to locate calving at Helheim Glacier. By using local seismometers, we are able to find the calving location at a much higher precision than previous studies. The signal–onset time differences at four local seismic stations are used to determine possible seismic-wave origins. We present a catalogue of 12 calving events from 2014 to 2015, which shows that calving preferentially happens at the northern end of Helheim Glacier, which will help to constrain models of calving.

Description: Developing a representative snow-monitoring network in a forested mountain watershed Kelly E. Gleason, Anne W. Nolin, and Travis R. Roth Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 21, 1137-1147, doi:10.5194/hess-21-1137-2017, 2017 We present a coupled modeling approach used to objectively identify representative snow-monitoring locations in a forested watershed in the western Oregon Cascades mountain range. The resultant Forest Elevational Snow Transect (ForEST) represents combinations of forested and open land cover types at low, mid-, and high elevations.

Description: The evaluation and enhancement of quality, environmental protection and seaport safety by using FAHP Danijela Tadic, Aleksandar Aleksic, Pavle Popovic, Slavko Arsovski, Ana Castelli, Danijela Joksimovic, and Miladin Stefanovic Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci., 17, 261-275, doi:10.5194/nhess-17-261-2017, 2017 The evaluation and enhancement of business processes in any organization in an uncertain environment presents one of the main requirements of ISO 9000:2008 and has a key effect on competitive advantage and long-term sustainability. The aim of this paper can be defined as the identification and discussion of some of the most important business processes of seaports and the performances of business processes and their key performance indicators (KPIs). The complexity and importance of the treated problem call for analytic methods rather than intuitive decisions. The existing decision variables of the considered problem are described by linguistic expressions which are modelled by triangular fuzzy numbers (TFNs). In this paper, the modified fuzzy extended analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) is proposed. The assessment of the relative importance of each pair of performances and their key performance indicators are stated as a fuzzy group decision-making problem. By using the modified fuzzy extended analytic hierarchy process, the fuzzy rank of business processes of a seaport is obtained. The model is tested through an illustrative example with real-life data, where the obtained data suggest measures which should enhance business strategy and improve key performance indicators. The future improvement is based on benchmark and knowledge sharing.

Description: The evaluation and enhancement of quality, environmental protection and seaport safety by using FAHP Danijela Tadic, Aleksandar Aleksic, Pavle Popovic, Slavko Arsovski, Ana Castelli, Danijela Joksimovic, and Miladin Stefanovic Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci., 17, 261-275, doi:10.5194/nhess-17-261-2017, 2017 The evaluation and enhancement of business processes in any organization in an uncertain environment presents one of the main requirements of ISO 9000:2008 and has a key effect on competitive advantage and long-term sustainability. The aim of this paper can be defined as the identification and discussion of some of the most important business processes of seaports and the performances of business processes and their key performance indicators (KPIs). The complexity and importance of the treated problem call for analytic methods rather than intuitive decisions. The existing decision variables of the considered problem are described by linguistic expressions which are modelled by triangular fuzzy numbers (TFNs). In this paper, the modified fuzzy extended analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) is proposed. The assessment of the relative importance of each pair of performances and their key performance indicators are stated as a fuzzy group decision-making problem. By using the modified fuzzy extended analytic hierarchy process, the fuzzy rank of business processes of a seaport is obtained. The model is tested through an illustrative example with real-life data, where the obtained data suggest measures which should enhance business strategy and improve key performance indicators. The future improvement is based on benchmark and knowledge sharing.

Description: Assessment of Integrated Watershed Health based on Natural Environment, Hydrology, Water Quality, and Aquatic Ecology So Ra Ahn and Seong Joon Kim Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-88,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The Korea government have been trying to created and tasked with implementing programs designed to repair the damage already done to the environment in the Han River basin. However, there was absence of integrated approach method for considering water supply, water quality improvement, and natural ecosystem maintenance. The objective of this study is to conduct integrated watershed health assessment on natural environment, hydrology, water quality, and aquatic ecology of the Han River basin.

Description: Landscape-scale water balance monitoring with an iGrav superconducting gravimeter in a field enclosure Andreas Güntner, Marvin Reich, Michal Mikolaj, Benjamin Creutzfeldt, Stephan Schroeder, and Hartmut Wziontek Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-103,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Monitoring water storage changes beyond the point scale is a challenge. Here we show that an integrative and non-invasive way is by observing variations of gravity that are induced by water mass changes. A high-precision superconducting gravimeter is successfully operated in the field and allows for direct and continuous monitoring of the water balance and of its components, such as actual evapotranspiration.

Description: Improved SWAT vegetation growth module for tropical ecosystem Tadesse Alemayehu, Ann van Griensven, and Willy Bauwens Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-104,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) is a globally applied river basin eco-hydrological simulator in a wide spectrum of studies, ranging from land use change and climate change impacts studies to research for the development of best water management practices. However, SWAT has limitations in simulating the seasonal growth cycles for trees and perennial vegetation in tropics, where the major plant growth controlling factor is the rainfall (via soil moisture) rather than temperature. Our goal is to improve the vegetation growth module of the SWAT model for simulating the vegetation parameters such as the leaf area index (LAI) for tropics. Therefore, we present a modified SWAT version for the tropics (SWAT-T) that uses of a simple but robust soil moisture index (SMI) – a quotient of the rainfall (P) and reference evapotranspiration (PET) – to initiate a new growing season after a defined dry season. Our results for the Mara Basin (Kenya/Tanzania) show that the SWAT-T simulated LAI corresponds well with the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) LAI for evergreen forest, savanna grassland and shrubs, indicating that the SMI is a reliable proxy to dynamically initiate a new growing cycle. The water balance components (evapotranspiration and flow) simulated by the SWAT-T exhibit a good agreement with remote sensing-based evapotranspiration (RS-ET) and observed flow. The SWAT-T simulator with the proposed improved vegetation growth module for tropical ecosystem could be a robust tool for several applications including land use and climate change impact studies.

Description: Improved SWAT vegetation growth module for tropical ecosystem Tadesse Alemayehu, Ann van Griensven, and Willy Bauwens Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-104,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) is a globally applied river basin eco-hydrological simulator in a wide spectrum of studies, ranging from land use change and climate change impacts studies to research for the development of best water management practices. However, SWAT has limitations in simulating the seasonal growth cycles for trees and perennial vegetation in tropics, where the major plant growth controlling factor is the rainfall (via soil moisture) rather than temperature. Our goal is to improve the vegetation growth module of the SWAT model for simulating the vegetation parameters such as the leaf area index (LAI) for tropics. Therefore, we present a modified SWAT version for the tropics (SWAT-T) that uses of a simple but robust soil moisture index (SMI) – a quotient of the rainfall (P) and reference evapotranspiration (PET) – to initiate a new growing season after a defined dry season. Our results for the Mara Basin (Kenya/Tanzania) show that the SWAT-T simulated LAI corresponds well with the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) LAI for evergreen forest, savanna grassland and shrubs, indicating that the SMI is a reliable proxy to dynamically initiate a new growing cycle. The water balance components (evapotranspiration and flow) simulated by the SWAT-T exhibit a good agreement with remote sensing-based evapotranspiration (RS-ET) and observed flow. The SWAT-T simulator with the proposed improved vegetation growth module for tropical ecosystem could be a robust tool for several applications including land use and climate change impact studies.

Description: Landscape-scale water balance monitoring with an iGrav superconducting gravimeter in a field enclosure Andreas Güntner, Marvin Reich, Michal Mikolaj, Benjamin Creutzfeldt, Stephan Schroeder, and Hartmut Wziontek Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-103,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) Monitoring water storage changes beyond the point scale is a challenge. Here we show that an integrative and non-invasive way is by observing variations of gravity that are induced by water mass changes. A high-precision superconducting gravimeter is successfully operated in the field and allows for direct and continuous monitoring of the water balance and of its components, such as actual evapotranspiration.

Description: Slope–Velocity–Equilibrium and evolution of surface roughness on a stony hillslope Mark A. Nearing, Viktor O. Polyakov, Mary H. Nichols, Mariano Hernandez, Li Li, Ying Zhao, and Gerardo Armendariz Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., doi:10.5194/hess-2017-83,2017 Manuscript under review for HESS (discussion: open, 0 comments) This study presents novel scientific understanding about the way that hillslope surfaces forms when exposed to rainfall erosion, and the way those surface interact with and influence runoff velocities during rain events. The data show that hillslope surfaces form such that flow velocities are independent of slope gradient, and only dependent on flow rates alone. This result represents a shift in thinking about surface water runoff.

Description: Recent geodetic mass balance of Monte Tronador glaciers, northern Patagonian Andes Lucas Ruiz, Etienne Berthier, Maximiliano Viale, Pierre Pitte, and Mariano H. Masiokas The Cryosphere, 11, 619-634, doi:10.5194/tc-11-619-2017, 2017 Our paper assesses the glacier mass change in the northern Patagonian Andes of Argentina and Chile, which is crucial to understanding how climate change is affecting them. We have found that between 2000 and 2012, glaciers in this region were slightly out of balance, with larger valley glaciers losing more mass than smaller mountain glaciers. The slightly negative mass balance of the northern Patagonian Andes contrasts with the highly negative mass balance of the Patagonian ice fields.