Country – France
Analysis of climatic and hydrological indicators for the Argens watershed
The Argens watershed, located in south-eastern France, is particularly exposed to climatic hazards such as flash floods, prolonged droughts and variations in river flow. In a context of climate change, it is crucial to understand and anticipate these phenomena in order to better manage water resources and protect local ecosystems. Société du Canal de Provence
Obective of this study
The aim of this study is to produce high-resolution climatic and hydrological indicators, covering a historical period and future projections to 2050. Using state-of-the-art models and a rigorous methodology, it provides accurate information to help decision-makers develop effective adaptation strategies. This initiative is part of our service offering data climate change and data water resources.
Phase 1: Calculation of historical indicators
The first step in the study of this watershed is to analyze the historical reference period, by collecting and processing climatic and hydrological data. The first step in the study of this watershed is to analyze the historical reference period, by collecting and processing climatic and hydrological data.These data include variables such as average temperatures, precipitation, river flows and extreme events (floods or droughts).
Thanks to its fine spatial resolution, this analysis will give us an accurate picture of past conditions in the Argens watershed. These indicators will serve as a basis for assessing future changes and understanding the evolution of hydrological dynamics in the region.
Phase 2: Climate and hydrological projections to 2050
The second phase focuses on the future of the watershed, producing indicators for 2050 based on two distinct socio-economic scenarios. These scenarios, based on RCP (Representative Concentration Pathways), enable us to assess the impact of different climate policies and levels of greenhouse gas emissions.
Projections include crucial variables such as flow variations, rainfall intensity and prolonged dry spells. These data aim to identify the most vulnerable areas and the main challenges facing the watershed in the future.
Phase 3: Comparative mapping with spatial interpolation
Finally, the last phase of the study consists in producing comparative maps using conservative spatial interpolation at a resolution of 100 meters. These maps highlight the differences between the historical period and future projections, providing a clear visual representation of projected trends.
These maps are powerful tools for decision-makers, enabling them to quickly identify areas at risk and prioritize adaptation actions.
What are the expected results?
The results of this study provide key information for water resource management and ecosystem protection in the Argens watershed. The indicators produced are intended for :
- Helping local authorities draw up policies for adapting to climate change.
- Strengthen the resilience of hydraulic infrastructures (dams, canals, irrigation systems).
- Preserve aquatic ecosystems, which are essential to the region’s biodiversity and ecological balance.
- Anticipate climatic risks such as floods and droughts.
These data can also be integrated into modeling and decision-making tools to support sustainable development initiatives on a regional scale, such as VAR 2050.
A sustainable vision for the Argens watershed
Analysis of climatic and hydrological indicators is an essential lever for anticipating the impact of climate change on water resources. This project offers concrete solutions to support local players in their transition to resilient, sustainable management. Thanks to a robust scientific approach coupled with advanced modeling tools, this study contributes to a better understanding of the climatic challenges and to the implementation of appropriate actions, thus guaranteeing the sustainability of water resources and the preservation of ecosystems in the Argens watershed.