The impacts of climate change on hydrological processes of Gilgel Gibe catchment, southwest Ethiopia

Furthermore, the Gilgel Gibe catchment exhibits significant temporal and spatial variability in temperature and precipitation, which manifests in heightened occurrences of hot and dry years, leading to severe water scarcity. Consequently, the catchment is highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change, such as warming and crop failures resulting from prolonged dry seasons. The observed decrease in runoff within the catchment has contributed to enhanced water security. The study’s analysis indicates that the SWAT simulations provide adequate esti- mates of the impacts of climate change in the Gilgel Gibe catchments. To enhance our under- standing of the present and future climate dynamics, urgent attention is required to improve the availability and quality of hydro-climatic data in the region. The results of this study have provided crucial insights into the impacts of climate change on the hydrological processes of the Gilgel Gibe catchment. These findings can inform the development of effective water resource management initiatives in the region. The rehabilita- tion of degraded sloping lands could enhance ground recharge and reduce surface runoff that contributes to soil erosion and sedimentation in the Gilgel Gibe I dam. Additionally, appropri- ate management strategies should be implemented to safeguard the Gilgel Gibe I hydroelectric dam in the catchment. Overall, these results underscore the imperative for regional develop- ment and collaboration to facilitate robust and climate-resilient management strategies and

mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on the catchment. Fig 17. Spatial patterns of the changes in water yield due to climate change. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0287314.g017 PLOS ONE The impacts of climate change on hydrological processes of gilgel gibe catchment PLOS ONE | https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0287314 June 28, 2023 24 / 28