Satellite Detection of Spatial Distribution and Temporal Changes of Surface Soil Moisture at Three Gorges Dam Region from 2003 to 2011

Abstract

Abstract Knowledge of the spatial distribution and temporal changes of the land surface parameters at the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) region is essential to understanding the changes of hydrological processes and climate systems possibly brought by TGD. Based on accumulated observations for years from a spaceborne passive microwave radiometer, this study presents and analyzes the spatial and temporal distribution of soil moisture in the TGD region. Major drought and flood events are identified from the satellite-derived soil moisture products. Moreover, the areas around the largest freshwater lakes of China, the Dongting and Poyang Lakes, are frequently subjected to drought events, which might be partially related to the impoundment of TGD since the year 2006. Data analysis further reveals a statistically significant drying trend in May in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River over the years 2003–11. These analyses indicate that water shortage becomes a realistic challenge for the once water abundant Yangtze River region, and more considerations on the possible consequences brought by climate changes are needed for the operation of TGD.