Preprints
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-3353
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-3353
18 Nov 2024
 | 18 Nov 2024
Status: this preprint is open for discussion.

Enhancing physically based and distributed hydrological model calibration through internal state variable constraints

Frédéric Talbot, Jean-Daniel Sylvain, Guillaume Drolet, Annie Poulin, and Richard Arsenault

Abstract. This study investigates the effectiveness of various calibration approaches within the Water Balance Simulation Model (WaSiM) to enhance the representation of hydrological variables. We assess the impact of three distinct configurations: Baseline (BL), Physical Groundwater Model (GW), and Physical Groundwater with Recharge Calibration (GW-RC) on the representation of hydrological variables. The analysis demonstrates that while traditional calibration primarily enhances streamflow prediction, integrating recharge and groundwater dynamics significantly refines the model’s ability to depict subsurface processes. The GW-RC configuration, with minimal emphasis on recharge in the objective function, shows a marked improvement in representing both the spatial and seasonal variability of groundwater recharge, suggesting that even small and targeted calibration adjustments can significantly enhance the accuracy and realism of model outputs. Although this approach may reduce the model’s flexibility in mirroring observed streamflow, it enhances the precision with which other hydrological processes are represented, providing a more accurate reflection of watershed dynamics. Our findings underscore the importance of multi-variable calibration frameworks, which incorporate both streamflow and internal hydrological variables, in developing robust models capable of adapting to anticipated hydrological shifts due to climate change. This approach provides a more accurate reflection of watershed dynamics and offers valuable insights for calibration strategies in hydrological modelling, water resource management and climate adaptation strategies.

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Frédéric Talbot, Jean-Daniel Sylvain, Guillaume Drolet, Annie Poulin, and Richard Arsenault

Status: open (until 30 Dec 2024)

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  • CC1: 'Comment on egusphere-2024-3353', Nima Zafarmomen, 23 Nov 2024 reply
Frédéric Talbot, Jean-Daniel Sylvain, Guillaume Drolet, Annie Poulin, and Richard Arsenault
Frédéric Talbot, Jean-Daniel Sylvain, Guillaume Drolet, Annie Poulin, and Richard Arsenault

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Short summary
This research explores different modelling approaches within a distributed and physically based hydrological model, emphasizing configurations that integrate groundwater recharge and dynamics. The study demonstrates that precise adjustments in model calibration can enhance the accuracy and representation of hydrological variables, which are crucial for effective water management and climate change adaptation strategies.