Snowmelt runoff estimation Using Combined Terra-Aqua MODIS Improved Snow product in Western Himalayan River Basin via degree day modelling approach

Abstract

Snow sustains Himalayan rivers as an abundant source of water. Although, seasonal snow cover is the significant parameter in a hydrological system of a basin, its contribution is restricted to the spring season when snow-melt and base-flow comprise two parts of the inflow. The current study assessed the snowmelt contribution in the total streamflow for the Beas River up to the Pandoh dam using Snowmelt Runoff Model (SRM). The study area is divided into seven elevation classes and snow cover has been computed. The snow-covered area varies from 10% to 80% in the basin. The efficiency of the model was evaluated using Coefficient of Determination (R2), Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency and Volume difference. The R2, NSE and Volume Difference during the calibration and validation period was ranges from 0.79 to 0.87, 0.72 to 0.79, -0.025% to 7.2% and 0.72, 0.67, -4.65 % respectively. The major finding of the present study suggest that a major part of the streamflow is generated in summer and monsoon season and the contribution of the snowmelt was ranges from 10-45%. The present study will provide a baseline information towards the contribution of snowmelt in the streamflow and also provide the information towards the availability of freshwater.