Water Level Difference Research Articles

Sustainable strategies for sea locks: An LCA study on reinforcement corrosion prevention methods

AbstractWaterway structures' planning, construction, and maintenance demand an intricate balance between technical excellence, durability, cost‐effectiveness, and other sustainability criteria, like ecological aspects. This study focuses on sea locks, which are crucial for coping with water level differences and ensuring smooth shipping. Sea lock structures, requiring high durability, pose challenges regarding environmental impacts, resource conservation, and social considerations. To address these challenges, this study compares three design approaches for sea locks over a target service life of 100 years: Conventional (including repair measures by replacing parts of the structural element), as well as preventive measures by using stainless steel and Cathodic Protection (ICCP) with both preventive (ICCP A) and reactive (ICCP B) approaches. The analysis reveals that major repairs significantly escalate environmental impacts and life cycle costs of reinforced concrete sea locks. Cement and steel manufacturing emerge as major contributors to environmental burdens, emphasizing the need for reduction measures. The preventive ICCP A method shows promise in reducing environmental footprints while keeping construction costs relatively low, although ongoing maintenance is required. The choice of stainless steel type significantly influences environmental impacts, highlighting the importance of lifecycle considerations. Multicriteria decision‐making aids in selecting the most balanced option based on stakeholder preferences, with sensitivity analysis proving beneficial. Incorporating weighing factors into tender processes could optimize decision‐making, while social indicators should be integrated into future assessments. Overall, this study sheds light on the complexities of balancing durability and sustainability in waterway structures, providing valuable insights for future planning and decision‐making.

Experimental Investigation on Velocity Field in Subterranean Water Flow Under Different Size of Gravel

Direct measurement of flow velocities within subterranean layer is important for predicting subterranean flow. The authors conducted a study on the velocity field of subterranean water flow by directly measuring the flow velocity within the subterranean layer using crushed stone to form a gravel mount. Namely, they directly measured subterranean flow velocities for five different sizes of gravels (5.3 mm, 16.5 mm, 25.5 mm, 47.5 mm, and 92.4 mm) and showed for the first time how the time-averaged flow velocity and standard deviation vary with the size of the gravels. The velocity field including turbulent intensity in the subterranean layer was revealed, and the flow field of the subterranean flow depends on the size of the gravels that make up the gravel mount. The relationship between the configuration of the gravel mount, the water surface profile, and the velocity field within the subterranean layer allowed a discussion of the vertical distribution of time-averaged velocities and standard deviations, as well as stream wise changes in the subterranean layer. From the results of time-averaged velocity and turbulent intensity (here, standard deviation) in the subterranean layer for different sizes of gravels, it is possible to estimate the velocity field of subterranean water flow formed by the grain size distribution of the depositing gravels and the difference in water level. In other words, by clarifying the velocity field of subterranean water flow consisting of different gravel sizes, it may be possible to evaluate the subterranean function of the sand and gravel zone deposited by transported gravels.

Impact of Three Gorges Dam construction on spatiotemporal variations in the hydrodynamic regime of Poyang Lake (China)

As an important large-scale river-connected lake in the middle–lower reaches of the Yangtze River, Poyang Lake has complex interactions with the main stream of the river. The full operation of the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) on the main stream of the Yangtze River has caused substantial changes in the relationship between the river and the lake, and the hydrological and hydrodynamic regime of Poyang Lake have also shown obvious variations in response. This study constructed a 2D hydrodynamic model of Poyang Lake based on GPU acceleration to realize a long-term simulation of the water flow evolution of Poyang Lake. By comparing the differences in water level at Hukou station between 20-year periods before and after TGD construction, the impact of TGD construction on Poyang Lake was characterized. Results showed that in comparison with the values for the pre-dam period, the water level of Poyang Lake decreased by 0.4–2.0 m and the flow velocity increased by 0.01–0.04 m/s in the post-dam period, and both showed a trend of reduction spatially from the north toward the south. Additionally, the inundation area of the lake decreased by 9 %, the 10-m characteristic water level at Xingzi station advanced by 27 days, the duration of low water extended by 37 days, and in typical dry, normal, and wet years, the time of occurrence of low water advanced. Moreover, TGD construction has aggravated the conditions of Poyang Lake in the dry season. The findings of this study are of great importance in relation to refining the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of habitats, and supporting further investigation of the changes in the aquatic ecosystem of Poyang Lake under TGD regulation.

Changes monitoring in Hongjiannao Lake from 1987 to 2023 using Google Earth Engine and analysis of climatic and anthropogenic forces

The research aimed to quantify the lake area dynamics, evaluate the changes in distance and rate of lake shorelines quantitatively and spatially and investigate the key factors influencing the Hongjiannao Lake (HL) area shrinkage. The study used remote sensing (RS) data from Landsat TM/ETM+ and OLI images and Google Earth Engine (GEE), a cloud platform for obtaining the lake surface area and island information from 1987 to 2023. A modified normalized difference water index (MNDWI) was applied to water area extraction. Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) was employed to assess net shoreline movement (NSM) and depict the lake shoreline length and rate changes. Furthermore, the water level was derived by ASTER GDEM V2 using the waterline method and lake boundaries. Six climatic features (temperature, precipitation, potential and actual evaporation, aridity index, and actual water difference) were investigated to find the driving factors of lake area shrinkage by correlation and factor analysis. The results reveal that during 1987–2023, the HL area has undergone four separate phases: stable (1987–1997), shrinkage (1998–2015), growth (2016–2019), and reduction (2020–2023). The most substantial negative change (−7.45%) in the HL area was observed in 1998. NSM analysis demonstrates that the lake has experienced both expansion and shrinkage at various times and locations. According to Water Balance Method, the water volume of HL exhibited variations, ranging from −0.1895 to −0.009 km³. The average yearly change in lake volume, water level, and area displayed similar characteristics with high inconstancy. Correlation and factor analysis of lake area and climatic factors demonstrate that higher precipitation, low temperatures, less potential evaporation level, lower actual evaporation rates, and more minor differences in water levels are associated with an increase in lake area. In contrast, the opposite conditions lead to a reduction in lake size.

Longshore Sediment Transport Across a Tombolo Determined by Two Adjacent Circulation Cells

AbstractLongshore sediment transport (LST) is essential for shaping sandy shorelines. Many shorelines are complex and indented, containing headlands, offshore islands and tombolos. Tombolos often form between islands and the mainland; however, the conditions for LST across tombolos are unclear. This question is important because tombolos are often reinforced with anthropogenic infrastructure, potentially causing sediment starvation of downdrift beaches. Along many shorelines, the return to a tombolo's natural condition has been proposed to promote sediment connectivity and counteract erosion. Nevertheless, the implications of such restorations remain uncertain. In this study, we employ the Delft3D wave‐current model to investigate hydrodynamics and sediment dynamics across a tombolo, examining its role as a connector between adjacent beaches. Contrary to expectations, our simulations show only diminutive longshore currents from the updrift beach across the tombolo unless offshore wave heights exceed 8 m. Instead, predominant currents crossing the tombolo originate from offshore of the island, driven by storm‐induced water level differences and circulation cells on both sides of the tombolo. The offshore island shelters the downdrift domain, resulting in higher wave energy and dissipation updrift of the tombolo. Further, increasing wave height or wave approach angle not only intensifies water level differences but also relocates circulation cells, enhancing total sediment transport from the updrift beach across the tombolo. However, in general, the deposition of sediment from the updrift side of the domain does not compensate for the sediment loss on the downdrift beach. We conclude that LST across tombolos is limited and occurs only under extreme wave conditions.

The streamgauging ruler: A low-cost, low-tech, alternative discharge measurement technique

The streamgauging ruler, a.k.a. transparent velocity-head rod, is an inexpensive, easy, and quick tool for conducting wading discharge measurements in open-channel flows. It provides reliable velocity and discharge measurements when the right measuring conditions, especially minimum flow velocity, are met. The principle is simple: depth-averaged velocity can be computed from the water level difference between the upstream and downstream sides of a plastic board placed into the flow perpendicular to the flow direction. The model developed by INRAE (commercially available for €210) is a little more expensive than previously published models but it significantly improves the ease-of-use and measurement quality. Comparison experiments with reference measurements performed in a laboratory flume and at various field sites confirm the accuracy of the semi-empirical velocity rating established by Pike et al. (2016). Over most of the investigated cross-sections, the discharge measurements are generally within 10% of the reference discharge, when the velocity is greater than 0.2 m/s. However, operator-related effects (site selection, number and distribution of verticals, adjustment and reading of the sliding rulers) can lead to larger errors, hence operator training and care are essential.A first evaluation of the velocity uncertainty related to the velocity-head reading is proposed in the form of an equation that can be used in existing methods for calculating discharge measurement uncertainty. As the method is extremely simple and quick, it is well suited for rapid discharge estimates, training or demonstration, citizen science programmes, or cooperation with services with limited resources and/or lacking specialized expertise in hydrometry. As of July 2024, 304 instruments had been built and released to diverse users around the world, along with a simple discharge computing spreadsheet, a video tutorial, and a field memo.

Investigation and optimization into flow dynamics for an axial flow pump as turbine (PAT) with ultra-low water head

When the water downstream is abundant, axial flow pumps are often used as turbines (PAT) for reverse power generation to obtain additional benefits. However, due to the actual water level difference, PAT usually operates at off-design conditions. The CFD technology and entropy production theory were used to study the working performance, flow characteristics, and energy loss mechanism of the blade adjustable axial-flow PAT under a low water head. The results indicate that the strength of the tubular vortex at the pressure surface and the separation position of the tip-leakage-vortex at the suction surface depend on the inlet angle of the blade. The energy loss in the draft tube is influenced by the velocity circulation at the runner’s outlet, which depends on the blade’s outlet angle. Subsequently, the blade inlet and outlet angles in the runner were optimized. In turbine mode, the overall efficiency of the optimized runner increased by an average of 0.99 %. The blade pressure load distribution of the optimized runner has improved, and the pressure fluctuation in the draft tube is also under control. In pump mode, due to the increasing of the inlet angle within the same demand pump head range, the optimized runner’s pumping flow increases by an average of 2 m3/s.

Flood Propagation Characteristics in a Plain Lake: The Role of Multiple River Interactions

Plain lakes play a crucial role in the hydrological cycle of a watershed, but their interactions with adjacent rivers and downstream water bodies can create complex river–lake relationships, often leading to frequent flooding disasters. Taking Poyang Lake as an example, this paper delves into its interaction with the Yangtze River, revealing the spatiotemporal patterns of flood propagation within the lake and its impact on surrounding flood control measures. The aim is to provide insights for flood management in similar environments worldwide. This study employs a comprehensive approach combining hydrological statistical analysis and two-dimensional hydrodynamic modeling, based on extensive hydrological, topographic, and socio-economic data. The results indicate that the annual maximum outflow from Poyang Lake is primarily controlled by floods within the watershed, while the highest annual lake water level is predominantly influenced by floods from the Yangtze River. The peak discharge typically reaches the lake outlet within 48 h, with the peak water level taking slightly longer at 54 h. However, water storage in the lake can shorten the time that it takes for the peak discharge to arrive. When converging with floods from the Yangtze River, the peak water level may be delayed by up to 10 days, due to the top-supporting interaction. Furthermore, floods from the “Five Rivers” propagate differently within the lake, affecting various lake regions to differing degrees. Notably, floods from the Fu River cause the most significant rise in the lake’s water level under the same flow rate. The top-supporting effect from the Yangtze River also significantly impacts the water surface slope of Poyang Lake. When the Yangtze River flood discharge significantly exceeds that of the “Five Rivers” (i.e., when the top-supporting intensity value, f, exceeds four), the lake surface becomes as flat as a reservoir. During major floods in the watershed, the water level difference in the lake can increase dramatically, potentially creating a “dynamic storage capacity” of up to 840 million cubic meters.

Partial dam-break wave characteristics due to partial gate opening

Understanding how to predict the characteristic height of a dam-break wave is crucial for effective risk management in dam-break scenarios. This study introduces an experimental framework to simulate partial dam-break waves triggered by partial gate openings. We conducted numerous experiments to explore how different factors, including water-level differences (hi), reservoir widths (L), dam-break openings (e), and submerged depths (hw) influence the characteristic heights of the main-wave peak (h1c), subwave peak (h2c), and main-wave trough (h1t). Our analysis led to the development of an equation for predicting h1c. Furthermore, we compared the partial dam-break wave profile with the theoretical profile of a solitary wave, identifying optimal conditions for solitary wave generation and examining the velocity characteristics of partial dam-break waves. The results reveal that: (1) h1c, h2c, and h1t have positive correlations with hi and L, but negative correlations with e and hw; (2) notably, the main-wave pre-peak profile aligns more closely with the solitary wave theory; and (3) the solitary wave theory accurately predicts the main-wave peak velocity. This study enhances our understanding of wave characteristic evolution during partial dam-breaks and can be used for validation in numerical simulations.

Water-driven robust triboelectric nanogenerator for electrochemical synthesis

Harvesting water energy and converting it into electricity by triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is an effective strategy to alleviate the energy crisis. In this work, we develop a corrosion- and abrasive-resistant triboelectric layer by employing the graphite powder as the coating filler. Inspired by the lever principle, a robust and corrosion-resistive TENG was designed for converting water energy into gravitational potential energy and then into electricity. It has the potential to apply anywhere with a water level difference. The microstructural graphite on the coating surface not only enhances the corrosion and abrasion resistance but also enhances the effective contact area and triboelectric output of the graphite/epoxy/polyamide (C/EP/PA) coating. The as-designed TENG shows an open-circuit voltage of 300 V and a power output of 1.936 W/m2. Excellent durability and long-term stability were also demonstrated. In this work, the electrochemical synthesis of nanoparticles driven by TENG was firstly reported. Thus, hinting a new and competitive strategy for the commercial application of TENG in self-powered electrochemical systems.

Assessing the impacts of ice penetration on monitoring water levels of high-latitude and -altitude lakes from CryoSat-2 altimetry

The CryoSat-2 satellite provides high-precision and long-term monitoring of global lake levels, offering advantages for water resource management, ecological protection, and disaster warning. However, the lake ice penetration by radar electromagnetic waves of CryoSat-2 altimetry tends to result in underestimation of water levels for lakes in high latitudes and altitudes. By contrast, the laser altimetry of ICESat-2 enables us to obtain the height measurements from lake ice surface and the ice penetration impacts on lake levels can be nearly ignored in the ICESat-2 elevation product. After converting the CryoSat-2 and ICESat-2 altimetry data to the same datum and height reference system, the water level difference of (near-) synchronous observations between the two satellites could be mainly attributed to the influences by the lake ice penetration from CryoSat-2 data. In this study, totally 257 lakes in high-latitude (north of 50°N) and high-altitude (the Tibetan Plateau, TP) regions that are covered by both CryoSat-2 and ICESat-2 satellite tracks are examined to explore the characteristics of ice penetration impacts on water level measurements. The altimetry data during unfreezing seasons (June to October) are used to correct the systematic height biases of these two satellite measurements, thus their water level differences during freezing seasons (November to May of the following year) are deemed as the influences of ice penetration on lake level measurements by CryoSat-2 radar altimetry. The results show that the maximum underestimation depth of water level for each lake varies within the range of 0.01–3.47 m, with an average of 0.90 m. Particularly in North America with a dense distribution of lakes, the underestimation of lake levels by CryoSat-2 gradually ascends with increasing latitude. CryoSat-2 underestimates lake levels in Europe and the TP less than in North America. Among different months, the lake ice leads to the maximum underestimation on the water level by CryoSat-2 altimetry in March. The spatial and temporal characteristics of lake ice impacts on the water level measurements by CryoSat-2 altimetry would be an essential reference for quantifying and reducing the uncertainties of satellite radar altimetry for monitoring inland water dynamics.

Assessing dissolved oxygen dynamics in Pasig River, Philippines: A HEC-RAS modeling approach during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract The water quality in Pasig River has been impacted by urbanization, industrialization, and the pandemic conditions. This study involved comparative analysis of dissolved oxygen (DO) levels before and during the pandemic. Field measurements, including water temperature, salinity, and DO, were conducted during neap and spring tides. To further understand and simulate DO distribution, a one-dimensional mathematical model, specifically Hydrologic Engineering Center-River Analysis System, was employed. Results showed that DO increased during the pandemic, ranging from 3.26 to 7.25 and 1.08 to 5.69 mg/L during neap and spring tide. From the minimum standard DO level, out of eight stations, seven passed during neap tide, while one station passed during spring tide. Salinity levels were higher during spring tide, which may have affected the DO. Salt intrusion was evident until 4 km from the confluence. The hydraulic model yielded average water level differences of 5.1 and 8.3 cm during calibration and validation, respectively. The DO calibration and simulation exhibited very good statistical evaluation outcomes, with values of 0.9 for Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency and 0.3 for Root Mean Standard Deviation Ratio. These findings hold significant potential for formulation of water quality enhancement plans and implementation of solid waste management and pollution policies.

Analysis of water supply fulfillment for watering plants needs in potentially upcoming El Nino period using reliable discharge and planned rainfall discharge methods

Based on the statement from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), Indonesia is potentially entering a period of El Nino and facing below-normal dry conditions that lead to drought. The Environmental Service of Surabaya City (DLH), that in charge of watering city parks every day is affected because this watering process utilizes water from existing water channels as its source. During the El Nino period, it is feared that the water channels will dry up, resulting in insufficient water supply for watering. The solution then is to analyze the water supply fulfillment. The method used is calculating the planned rainfall discharge to determine the water level in the rainy season and the reliable discharge to determine the water level in the dry season. Comparing the two water levels, the difference in water levels is then used to calculate the required water discharge. Through this analysis, it is found that the water demand during the dry season increases by 130 percent, reaching 676,000 liters. However, the water level in the existing channels decreased to 0 meters in July. Besides, the availability of alternative water from WWTP reaches 846,700 liters, which is sufficient to fulfill the watering water demand.

INVESTIGATION OF THE PROCESSES OF ECOLOGICAL AND ECOSYSTEM CHANGES IN WATER BODIES USING UAV DATA

In recent years, the water landscapes of inland rivers have been subjected to significant an- thropogenic impacts exceeding the limits of their self-healing ability. Traditional methods of monitoring ge- oecological parameters - sampling of water in the field with subsequent laboratory analysis - require signif- icant financial and time costs. Traditional methods allow assessing the ecological state of the entire water- course not spatially, but pointwise. In this research, sensors on board the UAV measured solar radiation reflected from the surface of the water and used image data from different camera ranges. The combina- tion of images used was based on a common methodology for identifying key features, and a geographic information system (GIS) modelling approach was used for spatially analyze the distribution and interaction of environmental features. In addition, research the ecological condition of the Yertis River and the quality of water discharged after the municipal wastewater treatment facilities of Ust-Kamenogorsk city into the Yertis River, the data from the DJI Phantom 4 RTK/multispectral drone was processed and the normalized vegetation index NDVI, normalised water level difference index NDWI, water chromaticness index CI, tur- bidity index NDTI and chlorophyll concentration index "a" were calculated. The results obtained can serve as a basis for scientific analysis of the environmental conditions of the researching area, including for learning the processes of eutrophication and other changes in the environment.

Estimating and Assessing Monthly Water Level Changes of Reservoirs and Lakes in Jiangsu Province Using Sentinel-3 Radar Altimetry Data

Generating accurate monthly estimations of water level fluctuations in reservoirs and lakes is crucial for supporting effective water resource management and protection. The dual-satellite configuration of Sentinel-3 makes it possible to monitor water level changes with great coverage and short time intervals. However, the potential of Sentinel-3’s Synthetic Aperture Radar Altimetry (SRAL) data to enable operational monitoring of water levels across Jiangsu Province on a monthly basis has not yet been fully explored. This study demonstrated and validated the use of Sentinel-3’s SRAL to generate accurate monthly water level estimations needed to inform water management strategies. The monthly water levels of lakes and reservoirs from 2017 to 2021 were produced using Sentinel-3 level-2 land products. Results showed that, compared with in situ data across eight studied lakes, all lakes presented R (Pearson correlation coefficient) values greater than 0.5 and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values less than 1 m. Notably, water level estimates for Tai Lake, Gaoyou Lake, and Luoma Lake were particularly accurate, with R above 0.9 and RMSE below 0.5 m. Furthermore, the monthly water level estimates derived from the Sentinel-3 data showed consistent seasonal trends over the multi-year study period. The annual water level of all lakes did not change significantly, except for Shijiu Lake, of which the difference between the highest and lowest water level was up to about 5 m. Our findings confirmed the water level observation ability of Sentinel-3. The accuracy of water level monitoring could be influenced by internal water level differences, terrain features, as well as the area and shape of the lake. Larger lakes with more altimetry sampling points tended to yield higher accuracy estimates of water level fluctuations. These results demonstrate that the frequent, wide-area coverage offered by this satellite platform provides valuable hydrological information, especially across remote regions lacking in situ data. Sentinel-3 has immense potential to support improved water security in data-scarce regions.

Comparison and selection of passenger transportation technology scheme for cruise terminal with large water level difference

Comparison and selection of passenger transportation technology scheme for cruise terminal with large water level difference

Solute transport characteristics at the lakebed sediment-water interface due to multiple influences of dual seasonal lakes

Multiple coexisting seasonal lakes are observed in the Poyang Lake basin. The interaction between surface water and groundwater, along with solute transport at the sediment-water interface (SWI), plays a crucial role in material cycling within the Poyang Lake ecosystem. However, the mechanisms governing how the relative positions of these lakes influence solute transport at the SWI remain unclear. This study employs indoor experiments and simulations based on real topography to investigate how the separation distance and elevation differences between two seasonal lakes, termed “lake A” (situated farther from the main lake) and “lake B" (closer to the main lake), affect solute transport. Findings highlight a distinct recharge pattern from lake A to lake B and the main lake during periodic water level fluctuations. A reduced distance between dual seasonal lakes results in a diminished water level drop in lake B during dry seasons. Proximity allows lake A to contribute more solutes to the main lake while promoting solute transport from lake B to the main lake, increasing the pore water recharge flux to overlying water in lake B. In cases where the separation distance has insufficient impact on water levels, the speed of pore water flow in this area inversely correlates with the distance between dual lakes. Reducing the distance intensifies solute transport into the bottom of lake A. Lower the elevation of lake B increases the water level difference between dual seasonal lakes, curtailing pollution within the lakebed. Elevating lake B forms hydrological isolation and more severe pollution of the lakebed. Solutes predominantly transport between lake B and the main lake, with pollution spreading to the lakebed of lake A and transitioning to downward diffusion over time. This research provides valuable insights for the hydraulic regulation of seasonal lakes and holds significance for the ecological restoration of Poyang Lake.

Investigation of Flow Hydraulic Gradient Through Self-Spillway Dams

Dams are hydraulic structures constructed across rivers in order to store or rise water level for multi-purposes such as irrigation and power generation. The upstream face of the dam is subjected to water drag force which makes possible of flow seepage through the dam body. In the present study, the difference in water level between upstream and downstream sides of a rock-fill dam is investigated under different flow conditions demonstrating the flow behavior through the dam body. Two well graded samples of river aggregates with d50 of 56 mm and 40 mm are used to build the dam model. One sample of poor graded crushed rocks of d50 33 mm is included as well. The obtained results show that due to the porosity of the gabion containing the aggregates, the hydraulic gradient line dropped down significantly where it is inversely proportional to the porosity non-linear relationships for all. In addition, a linear relationship has dominated on the relation between upstream water depth and discharge through the self-spillway dam with and without impermeable core

Numerical Analysis of Block Type Quay Wall with Piles for Restraining Horizontal Deformation

A two-dimensional numerical analysis was performed on the depth of pile embedment, the magnitude of the residual water level, and the condition of the presence or absence of cap concrete to understand the behavior of the block-type quay wall with piles. The results showed the control effect of the lateral displacement of the quay wall depending on the embedment of the pile. When the piles were not embedded, the lateral displacement of the quay wall increased proportionally as the residual water level difference increased. In contrast, when the piles were embedded into the ground, the control of the lateral displacement of the quay wall was greatly exerted even if the residual water level difference increased. There was little difference in the lateral displacement of the block-type quay wall regardless of the presence or absence of cap concrete. Under the condition where the piles were embedded down to the rubble mound layer, the piles exhibited the rotational behavior seen in the short piles. As the embedment depth of the piles increased, the piles showed the same bending behavior as the intermediate piles. Thus, the piles significantly contribute to the control of lateral displacement in the block-type quay wall with piles.

Water storage capacity estimation for a large complex lake system incorporating the water levels during flooding season

Study regionDongting Lake, ChinaStudy focusWater storage capacity (WSC) of a large lake system plays a crucial role in flood control decision-making during the flood season. Dongting Lake, located downstream of Three Gorges Dam, has a significant influence over flood control in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River (MLYR). To have a better WSC estimation of Dongting Lake, a multiple linear regression model was developed based on hydrodynamic simulation data of the typical flood processes in the past 3 decades.New hydrological insights for the regionThe multiple linear regression (MLR) model is developed by integrating of hydrodynamic simulation. Also, the effect of the water level (WL) at Chenglingji station and the WL difference in the lake (Yangliutan-Chenglingji) were investigated. The model can accurately estimate the WSC of Dongting Lake with an R2 of 0.984. The observation indicates that the WL difference within the lake has a great influence on the WSC and the flood regulation capacity ability with the same WL at Chenglingji station. The results of the study can provide a real-time estimation of the WSC of Dongting Lake which can provide useful information for flood control management.