vattenståndskurva

A vattenståndskurva, often translated as a water level curve or stage hydrograph, is a graphical representation of the change in water level over time at a specific location in a body of water. This body of water can be a river, lake, reservoir, or even the sea. The curve typically plots the water level, measured in meters or feet, against time, usually displayed in hours, days, or months.

These curves are essential tools for hydrologists, environmental engineers, and water resource managers. They provide vital information about the dynamics of a water body. For rivers, a vattenståndskurva can reveal patterns of flow, the impact of rainfall or snowmelt, and the effects of upstream structures like dams or diversions. For lakes and reservoirs, the curve shows fluctuations due to precipitation, evaporation, inflow from tributaries, and water extraction for various uses. In coastal areas, it illustrates tidal patterns and can be used to predict storm surges.

Analyzing a vattenståndskurva allows for the identification of trends, extreme events, and seasonal variations. It aids in flood forecasting, drought assessment, water supply management, and the design of hydraulic structures. By comparing current water level data with historical curves, experts can better understand the normal behavior of a water body and detect anomalies that might indicate environmental changes or operational issues. The data used to create these curves is typically collected by automated water level sensors or manual measurements at established gauging stations.