Toward Snowmelt Runoff Forecast Based on Multisensor Remote-Sensing Informnation

Abstract

Snow-cover mapping is a prerequisite for deriving the main input variable for a deterministic snowmelt runoff model (SRM). Operational forecasting of snowmelt runoff has to rely on "guaranteed snow cover information" for a specific area and time. Remote sensing can provide the necessary data, especially when different sensor systems are available for combined interpretations. It has been shown already how remote-sensing information from Landsat-MSS and NOAA/AVHRR supplement each other. It is important, though, that when using coarse spatial sensor resolution, special attention to the area, its topography, and the amount of snow coverage must be taken.