Formula Used:
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Change in Storage Volumes of water storage bodies on the stream is the difference of water incoming and outgoing. It represents the net change in water storage within a basin over a specific period.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The equation accounts for all major water balance components including natural flows, observed flows, return flows, diversions, evaporation losses, and water exports.
Details: Accurate calculation of change in storage volumes is crucial for water resource management, drought monitoring, flood forecasting, and sustainable water allocation planning.
Tips: Enter all values in cubic meters per second (m³/s). Ensure all measurements are taken over the same time period for accurate results. Values should be positive numbers representing flow rates.
Q1: What is the difference between natural flow and observed flow?
A: Natural flow represents the undisturbed river flow, while observed flow is the actual measured flow that may be affected by human activities and infrastructure.
Q2: How is return flow volume measured?
A: Return flow is typically measured at discharge points from irrigation systems, wastewater treatment plants, and industrial facilities returning water to the stream.
Q3: What factors affect evaporation losses?
A: Evaporation losses depend on temperature, humidity, wind speed, water surface area, and reservoir characteristics.
Q4: Why is water export considered in the calculation?
A: Water exported from the basin represents water that is permanently removed from the local water system and must be accounted for in the storage balance.
Q5: What time period should be used for these measurements?
A: All measurements should cover the same time period (daily, monthly, or annually) to ensure consistency in the water balance calculation.