Hidrología: investigaciones actuales

Understanding Urban Hydrology: Managing Water Resources and Protecting Urban Environments

Abstract

Omar Reyes*

Urban hydrology refers to the study of water and its movement in urban areas. It encompasses a range of physical and environmental factors, such as rainfall patterns, land use, drainage systems, and water quality. Understanding urban hydrology is essential for managing water resources, controlling flooding, and protecting human health and the environment. Urbanization has a significant impact on the hydrological cycle, leading to changes in the way water flows through urban landscapes. Impervious surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, and buildings, cover large portions of urban areas, preventing rainwater from infiltrating the soil. As a result, the amount of surface runoff increases, leading to higher peak flows, increased erosion, and higher rates of water pollution.