Methods of maximum discharge computation in ungauged river basins. Review of procedures in Romania

Abstract

Maximum discharge determination on small river basins with no hydrological measurement utilities is important for the rainfall-runoff correlation and the accurate assessment of the watershed surface flow effects. Discharge transfer time calculation from rainfall to runoff requires correct determined hydrological parameters. The focus of this article is the evaluation of Romanian methodologies used for maximum discharge computation in ungauged river basins. Our research for ungauged small river basins study methodology was carried on using remote sensing, GIS and regional datasets. Field work on significant small catchments was necessary for the basin morphological features assessment and land cover characteristics validation. We found that the Romanian rational methodology is widely used according to national landscapes features classification, applicable to a considerable number of ungauged river basins. Our study presents the benefits and limitations of the official Romanian methodologies used for small ungauged river basins scientific assessment and hydrological calculations.