Can Turbidity Data from Remote Sensing Explain Modelled Spatial and Temporal Sediment Loading Patterns? An Application in the Lake Tana Basin

• DOI: 10.1007/s10666-024-09972-y
• Publication Date: 2024-03-25T06:02:11Z
• Authors: Albert Nkwasa; Rediet Esayas Get...; Katoria Lekarkar; Estifanos Addisu ...; Analy Baltodano M...; Ting Tang; Ann van Griensven
• Keywords: Turbidity; Inflow

Abstract Understanding the spatial and temporal patterns of sediment loading in water bodies is crucial for effective quality management. Remote sensing (RS) has emerged as a valuable reliable tool monitoring turbidity, which can provide insights into dynamics bodies. In this study, we investigate potential turbidity data derived from RS to explain simulated Lake Tana basin, Ethiopia. Utilizing existing lake Copernicus Global Land Service (CGLS) seasonal multiyear trends river loadings Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT + model), estimate correlations at different inlets Tana. The results reveal strong positive correlation ( R 2 > 0.66) between monthly average load inflow rivers most inlets. This indicates that loads exhibit similar patterns. Notably, higher levels are observed inlet with highest export. These findings highlight products characterizing loadings, particularly data-scarce regions, contributing better understanding such areas.