• Sruthy Thomas
• Shibila T U

Research on hydrology following wildfires typically concentrates on the initial few years, resulting in significant uncertainty regarding the duration of impacts. Knowledge of the time required for hydrologic function to return to pre-fire conditions is crucial for making informed decisions regarding post-fire land and water management. This is particularly relevant in Mediterranean climates, where water is scarce and in high demand, and the severity and extent of wildfires are on the rise. The lack of a consistent definition or interpretation of what constitutes "recovery" contributes to the uncertainty surrounding hydrologic recovery. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of empirical studies from Mediterranean climates that had at least three years of post-fire hydrologic data. Our objectives were to (a) evaluate the recovery period, (b) establish a definition of post-fire hydrologic recovery, (c) demonstrate a straightforward analytical approach to aid in recovery assessment, and (d) outline research needs and opportunities to better quantify post-fire recovery. We analyzed the hydrologic effects reported in 38 sites that were monitored for 3-20 years. Eighteen sites were deemed to have recovered within seven years; however, the recovery time varied across sites and was not linked to location, response variable, or study design. The probability of recuperation during the study period was found to decrease as the proportion of the watershed area burned increased. It is noteworthy that we have proposed a standardized definition and methodology for quantifying hydrologic recovery, which may facilitate cross-study comparisons and a more profound comprehension of recovery. Specifically, we suggest that hydrologic recovery has transpired when a particular post-fire hydrologic function or condition of interest returns to the 95% confidence interval of the pre-fire condition. To support this definition, we have demonstrated the application of this straightforward approach to evaluate recovery and presented future research areas to enhance our understanding of long-term post-fire catchment responses. Furthermore, in addition to the requirement for more studies that quantify hydrologic responses further into the post-fire period, comprehending post-fire changes in soil structural and hydraulic properties over time will enhance our mechanistic understanding of post-fire hydrologic responses and recovery.

Wild-fire, Climate Change

"POST-WILDFIRE HYDROLOGIC RECOVERY IN MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATES", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 6, page no.b766-b775, June-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2406183.pdf

"POST-WILDFIRE HYDROLOGIC RECOVERY IN MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATES", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 6, page no. ppb766-b775, June-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2406183.pdf