Search Results (2)

The simulator for hydrological unstructured domains (SHUD) is a cutting-edge, distributed hydrological model based on the finite volume method, representing the next generation of coupled surface–subsurface hydrological simulations. Its applicability in high-altitude, cold regions covered by snow and permafrost, such as the Yellow River source region, necessitates rigorous validation. This study employed the China Meteorological Forcing Dataset (CMFD) to simulate streamflow in the Yellow River source region from 2006 to 2018, comprehensively assessing the suitability of the SHUD model in this area. The SHUD model excels in simulating monthly streamflow in the Yellow River source region, while its performance at the daily scale is comparable to existing models. It demonstrated significantly better performance in the warm season compared to the cold season, particularly in the middle and lower reaches of the region. Distinct seasonal and regional differences were observed in simulation performance across sub-basins. However, the model encounters limitations when simulating the extensively distributed permafrost areas in the upstream region, primarily due to oversimplification of the permafrost thawing and freezing processes, which points the direction for future model improvements. Additionally, the model’s shortcomings in accurately simulating peak streamflow are closely related to uncertainties in calibration strategies and meteorological data inputs. Despite these limitations, the calibrated SHUD model meets the hydrological simulation needs of the Yellow River Source Region across various temporal scales, providing significant scientific reference for hydrological simulation and streamflow prediction in cold regions with snow and permafrost. Full article

This study utilizes the Simulator of Hydrologic Unstructured Domains (SHUD) model and the China Meteorological Forces Dataset (CMFD) to investigate the hydrological dynamics of the Buha River watershed, a critical tributary of Qinghai Lake, from 1979 to 2018. By integrating high-resolution terrestrial and meteorological data, the SHUD model simulates streamflow variations and other hydrological characteristics, providing valuable insights into the region’s water balance and runoff processes. Key findings reveal a consistent upward trend in precipitation and temperature over the past four decades, despite minor deviations in daily precipitation intensity and relative humidity data. The SHUD model demonstrates high accuracy on a monthly scale, with Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) values of 0.72 for the calibration phase and 0.61 for the validation phase. The corresponding Kling–Gupta Efficiency (KGE) values are 0.73 and 0.49, respectively, underscoring the model’s applicability for hydrological forecasting and water resource management. Notably, the annual runoff ratios for the Buha River fluctuate annually between 0.11 and 0.21, with significant changes around 2007 correlating with a shift in Qinghai Lake’s water levels. The analysis of water balance indicates a net leakage over long-term periods, with spatial alterations in leakage and replenishment along the river. Furthermore, snow accumulation, which increases with altitude, significantly contributes to streamflow during the melting season. Despite the Buha River basin’s importance, research on its hydrology remains limited due to data scarcity and minimal human activity. This study enhances the understanding of the Buha River’s hydrological processes and highlights the necessity for improved dataset accuracy and model parameter optimization in future research. Full article