Potential effects of hydrometeorological extremes on river water quality

Hydrometeorological extremes, such as intense rainfall, prolonged droughts, and extreme temperature fluctuations, are increasingly impacting river systems worldwide. These events not only alter hydrological regimes but also significantly influence water quality, presenting challenges for ecosystems, water resource management, and public health. This study explores the interplay between hydrometeorological extremes and river water quality, focusing on nutrient loading, sediment transport, dissolved oxygen levels, and contaminant mobilization. Using case studies from diverse climatic regions, we investigate how extreme events disrupt physical, chemical, and biological processes within river systems. Intense rainfall events, for instance, are shown to exacerbate nutrient runoff and sediment resuspension, leading to eutrophication and habitat degradation. Conversely, drought conditions amplify salinity, temperature, and pollutant concentrations due to reduced dilution capacity. The role of antecedent conditions, event frequency, and catchment characteristics in moderating these impacts will be also evaluated. Hopefully through a combination of field observations, remote sensing data, and hydrological modeling, this work will provide a comprehensive assessment of how future shifts in extreme event patterns, driven by climate change, could shape river water quality dynamics. The research findings will underline the urgent need for adaptive water quality management strategies that incorporate the projected increase in hydrometeorological extremes, emphasizing ecosystem resilience and the protection of water resources.