Analysis of a Topsoil Moisture Regime Through an Effective Precipitation Index for the Locality of Nitra, Slovakia

Abstract

The aim of this work was to analyze and statistically confirm the relationship between the computed daily values of the Effective Precipitation Index (EP365) and the measured moisture content of the topsoil of a research site near Nitra, Slovakia. The statistical analysis (coefficients of determination) confirmed the strong correlation. Subsequently each day’s mean of EP365 (MEP) was used to quantify the long-term deficit or surplus of the soil water supply in the individual years. The daily values of the EP365 index provide a more detailed view of the development of the topsoil’s moisture regime. According to the deviation of EP (DEP) from the 14-year MEP, the most extreme dry periods prevailed during the years 2015, 2017 and 2018. Therefore, the 2012–2018period was evaluated as dry, and the topsoil moisture regime described through the MEP index was compared with the course of the MEP index from the normal (slightly humid) period of the years 2005 – 2011.

Interactions of natural and anthropogenic drivers and hydrological processes on local and regional scales: A review of main results of Slovak hydrology from 2019 to 2022

“…Sudden heavy rainfall has proven ineffective at moistening the entire soil profile, impacting only the upper few centimetres while the main root zone suffers from water shortage. Rončák et al (2021) analysed and statistically confirmed the relationship between the computed daily values of the effective precipitation index and the measured moisture content of the topsoil of a research site near Nitra, Slovakia. Sándor et al (2021) considered the impact of climate, soil properties and grassland cover on soil water repellency.…”

Public recreation and landscape protection - with environment hand in hand…

“…Moreover, these river regulations are designed to support the quick outflow of the water from the upper river basin thus negatively influencing the water balance (Rončák et al, 2019) and soil Moisture Regime (Rončák et al, 2021). Furthermore, the river regulation is usually reflected in a significant reduction in the attractiveness of the surrounding area and public space for recreation and leisure activities.…”