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Investigating Historical Baseflow Characteristics and Variations in the Upper Yellow River Basin, China
Guizhang Zhao1,2, Lingying Kong1, Yunliang Li3
1College of Geosciences and Engineering, North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, 36 Beihuan Road, Zhengzhou 450045, China.
Summary
Baseflow in the Yellow River is declining, impacting water resources. This study analyzed baseflow trends and cycles, revealing significant changes and periodic variations crucial for future water management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Hydrology
- Ecohydrology
- Water Resource Management
Background:
- Baseflow is critical for water resource management in arid/semi-arid regions like the Yellow River Basin.
- Understanding baseflow dynamics is essential for assessing the hydrological cycle and ecohydrological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate baseflow and baseflow index (BFI) behaviors in the upper Yellow River Basin.
- To analyze baseflow trends, persistence, and periodic characteristics from 1950-2000.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Lyne and Hollick digital filtering technique.
- Analyzed observed streamflow discharges to determine baseflow characteristics.
Main Results:
- A decreasing trend in average baseflow and BFI was observed, projected to continue.
- Annual baseflow varied from 128 × 10^8 m^3/year to 193 × 10^8 m^3/year, with an average BFI of 0.60.
- Identified two main periodic variations in baseflow at 28 years and 12-17 years, with abrupt changes in the 1960s, 1980s, and 1990s.
Conclusions:
- Baseflow and BFI show significant spatial differences, particularly downstream.
- Findings provide insights into Yellow River baseflow dynamics, aiding water resource and river regime management.
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