Abstract:
In this study, we introduce an innovative global river routing model founded on hydraulic geometry principles and irregular hydrologic catchments, specifically designed for integration with Earth system models such as NASA GEOS. The model aims to capitalize on (1) the river network and topology defined by the Pfafstetter coding system, (2) the understanding of hydraulic geometry principles that connect river discharge to flow velocity, and (3) a vast number of field measurements of flow velocity in the US to simulate river dynamics. The results demonstrate that the developed model can reliably produce natural daily river discharge for all regions in the US, except for the Great Lakes and Southwest areas. Furthermore, the model can accurately simulate flow velocity and water storage with realistic magnitudes. Our research indicates that a global routing model based on hydraulic geometry and calibrated with field measurements of flow velocity can exhibit valuable capabilities in simulating river discharge, flow velocity, and water storage. This model holds potential for use in Earth system models, tracers-tracking, and water management applications.