The thermal structure of Sau Reservoir (NE : Spain): a simulation approach

In this study, a 1D model of reservoir hydrodynamics DYRESM has been applie d to Sau Reservoir, a river valley reservoir in the North-Eastern Spain. Si mulation is undertaken for 3 years (1995-1997), Meteorological input data m easured at the dam are only available from May of 1997. In this case the si mulation results fit measured temperatures very well. In the remaining peri ods, some meteorological data (radiation, wind and rainfall) were obtained from two nearby stations. Simulated temperature distribution ire 1996 is cl ose to the observed one. In 1995, however, the simulated result is far from the observed data. Inflows, outflow and local meteorological events such a s storms and gusts of wind seem to be responsible for the differences. By c hanging some parameters, the effects of flow, light extinction coefficient and outlet elevation on thermal stratification are investigated. Simulation s demonstrate that the inflow with high temperature is the main factor cont rolling the thermal structure in Sau Reservoir and demonstrate that the eff ect of residence time on thermal stratification is manifested mainly by the changes in the depth of thermocline. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All ri ghts reserved.