USGS: Knowledge gap in hurricane effects on water quality

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists have completed a strategic review of current knowledge of hurricane impacts on water quality. A new report describes assets and capabilities in water science throughout the USGS. The publication also suggests improving water quality monitoring infrastructure to assess the impacts of extreme storms.

The Water Resources Mission Area scientists conclude that an “unfilled niche exists in predicting water-availability impacts from hurricanes that result from water-quality impacts”.

Assessment focused on the Southeastern coastal region, where tropical cyclones frequently occur. The landscape-scale disturbances can lead to impaired water quality. In turn, this lessens available water. The study takes into account surface water and groundwater quality. Storm surge and high precipitation rates can “lead to altered surface-water and groundwater flow paths, flooding, and erosion, and inland penetration of ocean water can alter the freshwater / saltwater balance in ecosystems and water supplies.”

Since water quality can be “altered on multiple timescales,” measuring and modeling coastal processes with surface-water and groundwater models isn’t enough. Models also need to address the timing of water quality impacts. Short-term alterations occur over some weeks or less. In contrast, long-term changes will be seen in months or longer periods. Spatial information is also critical. Assessment of the impacts of hurricane intensity, duration of storm surge, rainfall, and winds on watersheds and aquifers.

Within the report, the authors provide a conceptual framework of hurricane drivers and their impacts on water availability through thresholds and deviations in water quality.

“The USGS may consider the development of tools to predict the extent to which water-quality impacts of hurricanes affect water availability.”

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