| Advances in African hydrology and climate: methods, innovations and applications
HS2.1 EDI
Advances in African hydrology and climate: methods, innovations and applications
Co-sponsored by IAHS
Convener: Moctar DembéléECSECS | Co-conveners: Meron Teferi Taye, Hailay Zeray Tedla, Fiachra O'Loughlin

Advances in hydrological science and technology are transforming water resource management and mitigating water and food insecurity challenges that are being intensified by climate change across Africa. Emerging methods in artificial intelligence, machine learning, including foundation models and transfer-learning approaches for data-scarce basins, and digital innovations are being combined with process-based hydrological models. These approaches are improving provision of information on water availability, and enhancing early warnings of floods, droughts, and water stress. This session aims to bring together communities working on different strands of African hydrology, climate risks, environmental risks, and Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem nexus. We invite contributions across three key areas: (1) understanding and monitoring hydrological processes, groundwater-surface water interactions, low-cost innovative measurement and monitoring systems, remote sensing and AI-driven modelling; (2) Prediction and assessment - drought/flood forecasting, seasonal to decadal forecasting, climate change impact assessments including compound and multi-hazard risks, and operational early warning systems for anticipatory action; and (3) Management and solutions - water resources management and climate change adaptation strategies. Studies that utilize interdisciplinary approaches are particularly encouraged. By fostering collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, this session aims to bring to the forefront the advances in understanding African hydrology and climate while promoting practical solutions. Science-for-solutions initiatives contributing to the IAHS HELPING decade are welcome.