Modelling of groundwater recharge and drought statistics within the Framework of a climate impact study in a Mediterranean catchment (Thau Lagoon, France)

According to current climate projections until the year 2100, Mediterranean countries are likely to be at high risk for decreasing groundwater recharge during the hydrological winter half year as well as increasing drought severity and duration during summer. Thus, the irrigation needs of agricultural land might increase during the vegetation period and will have to be covered regionally specific partially from groundwater resources. This issue seems to be equally important to be investigated compared to the possible future change of the river discharge regime under changed climate conditions.