Characteristics of Sand-Driving Wind Regime and Sand Drift Potential in Sandy Areas on Both Sides of Longyangxia Reservoir in China
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This study focuses on the desertification areas of Talatan and Mugetan, located on both sides of the Longyangxia Reservoir in Qinghai Province, China. These areas pose serious threats to the safety of the reservoir due to frequent wind-sand activities. The research aims to provide a scientific basis for effective sand control by deeply analyzing the dynamic change of wind.The wind speed and direction data from Shazhuyu and Guinan meteorological stations in Qinghai Province, China were used to calculate the numerical and directional characteristics of sand-driving wind and sand drift potential.The results indicate that: (1) The number of sand-driving wind at Talatan is about 7 times that at Mugetan, and the maximum and average wind speeds are about 7 m/s larger than those at Mugetan. At Talatan, the primary sand-driving wind direction is exclusively West Northwest (WNW). Conversely, at Mugetan, the sand-driving wind direction remains westward in spring, autumn, and winter, shifting eastward solely in summer. (2) The annual sand drift potential of Talatan and Mugetan is less than 200VU, two sandy areas are both in low wind energy environments; (3) The major causes of the significant differences in sand-driving wind regimes between the Talatan and Mugetan are topography, precipitation, wind direction stability.These conclusions offer valuable insights for developing targeted sand control strategies, thereby mitigating the potential hazards posed by wind-sand activities to the Longyangxia Reservoir and its surrounding ecosystems.
Authors: Lechun Zhang, Dengshan Zhang, Guoyuan Xu, Fengling Dong, Wanbing Tuo
Language: English
Subfield: Earth-Surface Processes
Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDGs: Climate action, Life on land
Open Access status: diamond
Award: G7509279590
OpenAlex ID: W4401763163