Chapter 9 - Impacts of climatic variability on subsurface water resources

Abstract

Subsurface water resources have dynamic interactions with ground surface and its prevailing environmental conditions. Climate variability affects subsurface water resources both directly by altering surface water flux and indirectly via changes in groundwater extraction patterns. Dynamic climatic conditions are responsible for both the quantitative and the qualitative aspects associated with subsurface water resources. An improved understanding of impacts of climatic variability on subsurface water resources system is required for effective management of vadose zone and underlying groundwater reservoirs. Thus the main aim of this chapter is to present the subsurface water resources changes caused by surrounding climatic variabilities. First, the soil–water–atmospheric interactions under changing climate conditions are discussed thoroughly. Quantitative assessment of subsurface water storages and its flow under climate change conditions are elaborated and exemplified next. Thereafter, the role of varying climatic conditions on geochemical characteristics and pollutant transport is discussed in depth. Different aspects of modeling and practical approaches to identify the governing geo-hydrological processes in subsurface under varying environmental conditions are also reviewed comprehensively. Finally, a practical management framework is suggested on the basis of technical and socioeconomic aspects for implementing the potential mitigation measures associated with subsurface water resources under changing climatic conditions.