Relationship between Area Changes of Key Lakes and Evapotranspiration in Qinghai Province

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the temporal variations in the area and evapotranspiration (ET) of five key lakes on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau: Qinghai Lake, Hara Lake, Eling Lake, Gyaring Lake, and Ulan Ula Lake. Utilizing remote sensing data from Landsat satellites over the period from 1986 to 2022, we examined the dynamic changes and identified significant correlations and lag effects between lake area and regional ET. Distinct temporal patterns and sudden changes in lake areas and ET were observed, with Qinghai Lake showing an upward trend in the summer area and a mutation in 2020, while ET exhibited a mutation in 2021. Cyclic characteristics were observed, with significant correlations noted during specific periods, indicating a strong positive phase relationship between lake area and ET. This research contributes to the sustainable development and ecological protection efforts in this ecologically fragile region.