High frequency variability in glacier meltwater patterns in the Rhone Watershed, Switzerland
Abstract
Glaciers contribute to the hydrology of many mountainous watersheds worldwide. Current models reproduce fairly accurate seasonal discharge measurements, but many fail to capture daily cycles and constrain daily peak discharge and base flow. This high frequency variability impacts sediment flux, hydropower generation, montane ecosystems, and others. Here we seek to improve our understanding of glacial meltwater processes that control diurnal melt cycles. In particular, we use isotopic and geochemical measurements and discharge estimates in four glaciated watersheds (Rhonegletscher, Gornergletscher, Minstigergletscher, and Langgletscher) and two non-glaciated watersheds within the Rhone Watershed, Switzerland to test and constrain our understanding of these processes and to constrain a glacier melt model. We chose these particular watersheds because they represent a significant range in size, shape, slope, and other geomorphological features of a glacier that likely control the shape, magnitude, and duration of daily peak melt. Preliminary data show differences in the shape, magnitude, and duration of peak melt on small spatial scales within these watersheds. Using a temperature index model, we calculate hourly melt on each glacier and model meltwater flow on the glacier's surface. We use the model to evaluate which parameters are the dominant controlling factors on diurnal melt to increase our understanding of high frequency melt variability. By doing so, we create a framework to better understand the impact diurnal variations have on various hydrologic, ecologic, and human systems that rely on glacial melt.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2016
- Bibcode:
- 2016AGUFM.C41D0701M
- Keywords:
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- 0720 Glaciers;
- CRYOSPHEREDE: 0726 Ice sheets;
- CRYOSPHEREDE: 0774 Dynamics;
- CRYOSPHEREDE: 1827 Glaciology;
- HYDROLOGY