REGIONALIZATION OF MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM FLOW IN THE TELES PIRES BASIN, BRAZIL

Abstract

ABSTRACT In a watershed there is space and climate variability within its catchment area, causing changes in water qualitative and quantitative characteristics. Thus, the hydrological data collected from a specific basin may be extrapolated to neighboring basins with similar physical characteristics, using techniques of hydrological regionalization. This study developed the flow regionalization in the Teles Pires Basin, using historic series and probabilistic models to verify the data adherence through the regression equations adjustment according to the hydrologically homogeneous regions. The linear and power regression models were tested, employing physical and climatic characteristics and then the best adjustments were selected based on coefficients of determination, adjusted coefficient of determination, significance by F-test and small number of variables in the equation. The physical characteristics of the basin, drainage area and mainstream length, and the climatic variable, annual total precipitation showed higher adjustments. These equations can provide subsidy for decision making in the process of water resource management.

Keywords

• hydrological regionalization
• natural flow
• water resources management