| Managing reservoirs is a complex task, requiring a careful balance between water storage, flood control, electricity generation, and drinking water supplies. Factors such as seasonal snow cover, total snow water equivalent (SWE), antecedent soil moisture, and extreme precipitation events significantly influence the volume and timing of reservoir inflows. For effective hydropower planning and flood mitigation, monitoring the volume of precipitation – including rainfall, snow cover, and spring snowmelt at high latitudes and altitudes – and understanding the soil moisture and saturation of a basin prior to a storm are critical for predicting runoff and monitoring water levels in reservoirs and inflow rivers.
NASA Earth observations and modeled data provide vital insights into these precursor conditions. Satellite-derived soil moisture and precipitation data allow managers to monitor basin saturation and heavy rainfall events. Additionally, remote sensing of snow cover and SWE fills critical data gaps in low-elevation and un-gauged mountainous areas, offering a comprehensive view of available water before it melts. Moreover, data on rain and snow melt runoff, water level heights of reservoirs and inflow rivers, and streamflow provide needed information for monitoring reservoir systems and watershed conditions to make informed management decisions.
This three-part training focuses on case studies and hands-on exercises using rain and snow, soil moisture, runoff and streamflow, and water level height, to help users monitor reservoir inflows, optimize water release decisions, and manage flood risks. |
