Water

1. Water Cycle Prediction System (WCPS)

Description:

The WCPS simulates the complete water cycle, tracking water as it moves from the atmosphere to the surface, through river networks, into lakes, and back to the atmosphere. It offers short-term analyses and forecasts of atmospheric, oceanic, ice, and river flow conditions. Initially implemented over the Laurentian Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River watershed, the system has been extended to cover the Gulf of St. Lawrence region.

eccc-msc.github.io

Available Variables:

• Atmospheric Variables:

  • Surface Air Temperature: Temperature near the Earth's surface.

  • Surface Wind Velocity: Speed and direction of winds at the surface.

  • Precipitation: Amount of rainfall or snowfall.

• Hydrological Variables:

  • Surface Runoff: Water flow occurring when the soil is saturated or impervious.

  • River Discharge: Volume of water flowing through rivers.

• Ocean and Ice Variables:

  • Lake/Ocean Water Levels: Elevation of water bodies.

  • Water Temperature: Temperature within lakes and oceans.

  • Sea Ice Concentration: Fraction of area covered by sea ice.

Potential AI/ML Applications:

• Enhancing flood forecasting by analyzing precipitation and runoff data.

• Modeling the impacts of climate change on water resources.

• Improving water quality predictions through comprehensive cycle analysis.

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2. Operational Hydrodynamic Prediction System (OHPS)

Description:

The OHPS is a two-dimensional hydrodynamic prediction system focused on the St. Lawrence River and its estuary. It aids in understanding the flows affecting the St. Lawrence ecosystem and serves as a decision-making tool for integrated river management. The system integrates three components to provide detailed analyses and forecasts.

api.weather.gc.ca

Available Variables:

• Hydrodynamic Variables:

  • Water Levels: Elevation of the river surface at various points.

  • Current Velocities: Speed and direction of water flow.

  • Temperature Profiles: Vertical distribution of water temperature.

Potential AI/ML Applications:

• Predicting sediment transport and deposition patterns.

• Assessing the impact of hydrodynamic changes on aquatic habitats.

• Optimizing navigation and shipping operations through accurate current forecasts.