Hydrological dynamics of snowmelt induced streamflow in a high mountain catchment of the Pyrenees under contrasting snow accumulation and duration years

• DOI: 10.1002/hyp.15127
• Publication Date: 2024-03-15T02:10:57Z
• Authors: J. I. López‐Moreno; J. Revuelto; E. González‐Alonso; E. Izagirre; F. Rojas‐Heredia; C. Deschamps‐Berger; J. Bonsoms; J. Latron
• Keywords: Snowmelt; Water year

Abstract Snowmelt drives a large portion of streamflow in many mountain areas the world. However, water paths from snowmelt to arrival streams are still largely unknown. This work analyzes for first time influence on spring with different snow accumulation and duration, an alpine catchment central Spanish Pyrenees. study presents balance main melting months (May June). Piezometric values, temperature, electrical conductivity isotope data (δ 18 O) allow better understanding hydrological functioning basin during these months. Results calculations showed that represented average 73% available May June while precipitation accounted only 27%. rainfall period was important determine shape hydrographs. On average, 78% sum both equivalent (SWE) accumulated at beginning converted into runoff May–June period. The evaporation‐sublimation 2 corresponded 8.4% SWE rainfall, so small part input ultimately soil groundwater storage. When cover disappeared catchment, storage sharp decline. Consequently, conductivity, temperature δ O marked tipping point towards higher values. fast response meteorological fluctuations, as well diel fluctuations period, strongly suggests short meltwater transit times. As consequence this behaviour, independently amount date, summer remained always low, peaks driven by events.