Indicators for Climate Change Impacts - Rivers in temperate ecoregions, Large rivers
Unpredictable flood events
| Stressor type | Hydrology / Morphology |
|---|---|
| Responding parameter group | Hydromorphological parameters |
| Responding parameter | Unpredictable flood events |
Response description
Extreme precipitation events will cause more frequent flash floods in channelized river systems.
Secondary effects
Frequent remobilisation of bottom substrates and of the biota.
Specification of relevant ecosystem type
Relevant for all large rivers in temperate ecoregions.
Relevant ecoregion(s) according to Illies
Central Lowlands (14), Western Lowlands (13), Western Mountains (8), Central Mountains (9)
Suggested indicator
Number and discharge or flood events in unusual seasons (recorded by gauging stations)
Justification of indicator
The discharge of most large rivers is already monitored with gauging stations.
Reference(s)
Graham, L.P. (2004): Climate change effects on river flow to the Baltic Sea. Ambio 33 (4-5): 235-241.
