Snow cover change assessment in the upper Bhagirathi basin using an enhanced cloud removal algorithm

Abstract

This research paper proposes a new five-step protocol to enhance the result of existing cloud removal algorithms using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) daily snow cover products (SCPs). The study has been carried out for the upper Bhagirathi basin (up to Maneri Hydropower Project) located in the Western Himalaya. Gafurov and Bárdossy test employed to validate the performance of the proposed method, followed by comparing with the field observed snow cover duration (SCD) data. The result shows that the mean overall accuracy of the proposed method for cloud removal is about ∼95%. However, the cloud removal method by Gafurov and Bardossy also achieved similar mean overall accuracy but with the higher variability within the individual images as compared with the variability within the results obtained by the proposed method. SCD computed from cloud removed SCPs matched significantly with the field observed SCD for a point location, supporting the accuracy achieved by the cloud removal method. This study also examines the spatiotemporal variability of the snow cover in the study area during the past 18 years (2000–2018). During the observation period, no specific trend was observed for annual maximum snow cover, while yearly minimum snow cover in the basin showed an increasing trend since 2010. Seasonally, December and June month witnessed significant changes. December experienced a declining trend in snow cover between 3000–6000 m a.s.l. covering 88% of the basin area, whereas, June showed an increasing trend between 4500 to 6000 m (a.s.l.). This elevation range covers 61% of the basin area, including core 86% of the glacier area within the basin. September and October experienced the highest inter-annual snow cover variability. Maximum snow cover month of February and minimum snow cover month of August experienced the least variability. The present study suggests significant elevation-dependent increasing as well as the decreasing trend in the snow cover with seasonal contrast, which may affect the glaciers as well as the hydrological behavior of the basin.