Hydrological functioning of Lake Dayet Erroumi using remote sensing and GIS

Abstract

Lake Dayet Erroumi is a permanent continental lake which represents a site of biological and ecological interest. It is located 15 km southwest of Khemisset (Morocco). The hydrological functioning of this lake has been studied using remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS). The aim of this research is to delineate the lake's watershed and hydrographic network, illustrate its water supply, and characterize fluctuations in its water level. The results of this study reveal that Lake Dayet Erroumi is the outlet of its watershed, which cover an area of 75,275 km2. Three tributaries feed and drain the lake. Two small streams feed the lake at the NW and SE ends, while a drainage canal empties at the NE end of the lake. Furthermore, the water level of the lake undergoes fluctuations of several meters, with periods of water dilution (high water) due to tributaries, and periods of evaporation and underground export of lake water (low water).