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Hydro Resource Evaluation Tool
physical characteristics of a hydro site
Tier 1. Map based estimate of mean flow
You can calculate a rough estimate of your mean flow using your estimates of catchment area and rainfall.
MF = ( |
(SAAR – PE) x 1000 |
) A |
Equation 2 |
365 x 24 x 3600 |
Where,
MF = the flow in you catchment (m3/s);
SAAR = the Standard Average Annual Rainfall for your catchment (mm);
PE = potential evaporation (mm);
A = your catchment area (km2).
An approximate value of potential evaporation in the North West is 450mm.
The uncertainly in this estimate of mean flow is dependent upon the accuracy of your estimate of catchment area and rainfall, and the approximation of potential evaporation. Please note that this is an estimate of your natural flow and you will need to take account of any artificial influences within your catchment.
