Characterization of Long-term Atmospheric and Terrestrial Hydrological Cycle Change Using Multiple Data Sources

In this study, we utilize 31-year (1979-2009) hydrometeorological data from multiple sources over 20 world large river basins to detect long-term hydrological cycle change due to changed environmental conditions. The data used include observed-, hydrological modelling-, reanalysis- and remote sensing-based data for various atmospheric and terrestrial hydrology variables. A novel approach, based on the conjunctive use of GRACE water storage and atmospheric reanalysis data, is proposed to more accurately close water budget and characterize the interaction between atmospheric and land branch of hydrological cycle. The results are validated against in-situ hydrological observations in Illinois and Mississippi River basin. The advantage of this approach on the prediction of the hydrological response to future climate change will be outlined.