Impact of climate change on the groundwater balance in the supply areas for drinking water in the Rhine-Main Region

Abstract

For the supply areas for drinking water in the Rhine-Main region, the range of effects of climate change on groundwater supply and groundwater levels was determined in model-based simulations using an ensemble of regional climate projections: Significant changes in the groundwater recharge are only expected after 2040/2050; until then a moderate development is likely. These climate projections indicate an increase in the seasonal and long-term fluctuation amplitude of groundwater levels. The local manifestation of these effects is strongly influenced by the hydrogeological properties of the area which are of considerable importance. The agricultural irrigation requirement will increase considerably due to the close coupling of evaporation to the assured tempe