Assimilation of Satellite-Derived Reservoir Storage Data to Improve Global Hydrodynamic Modeling

Abstract

In this study, we explore the potential of assimilating satellite-derived reservoir storage data into the global-scale hydrodynamic model CaMa-Flood, focusing on the Yangtze River basin. We evaluated three data assimilation (DA) methods: direct assimilation (DIR), anomaly based assimilation (ANO), and normalized assimilation (NOM). Our results show that the DIR method achieved the most significant improvements in reservoir storage and downstream discharge simulations. DIR reduced the average relative root mean square error (rRMSE) of reservoir storage estimates by 80.5%, and increased discharge correlation (ΔCC) by 78.6% in the 14 validated discharge stations. ANO, while effective in certain cases, led to mixed results, with 56.4% of the 39 assimilated dams showing improved storage estimates and a modest 7.8% reduction in average RMSE. NOM had minimal impact, with negligible changes in RMSE or discharge correlation (ΔCC). The direct assimilation method (DIR) consistently outperformed the others, improving both reservoir storage and downstream discharge estimates. However, the magnitude of improvement varied across locations, highlighting the need for the further refinement of DA techniques and input data, especially for regions with complex reservoir operations. Our findings enhance reservoir representation in global hydrodynamic models and improve the predictability of river dynamics and water resource management.