Using a statistical approach and the Standardised Streamflow Index (SSI) to analyse the impact of climate change on runoff in catchments on the north-eastern edge of Algeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35208/ert.1649766Keywords:
Climate change, flow, statistical methods, SSI, Medjerda catchment, Côtier Constantinois East catchmentAbstract
This study evaluates climate change impacts on river flows in northeastern Algeria using statistical analyses of hydrological data (1958–2023) from the Medjerda and Côtier Constantinois East catchments. Applying the Mann-Kendall test, Sen's slope estimator, and homogeneity analysis to monthly streamflow data revealed significant declining trends (34–68%) following hydrological breakpoints (2006–2015). The Standardized Streamflow Index (SSI) indicated persistent mild drought conditions, occurring during 58–68% of the study period. These findings demonstrate substantial reductions in water availability across all three monitored stations (Kébir: -68.4%; Medjerda: -34.6%; Mellegue: -65.6%), highlighting increasing hydrological stress in Mediterranean catchments under climate change. The results provide critical insights for water resource management in semi-arid regions facing similar climatic challenges.
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