The HyMex observation strategy
The HyMeX programme foresees the monitoring of all relevant atmospheric, oceanic, hydrological and bio-chemical variables during a long observation period, with additional means deployed during enhanced and special observing periods.
The general observation strategy is based on a three-level nested observation scheme.
Observation periods
Long-term Observation Period (LOP)
A Long-term Observation Period (LOP) lasting about 10 years is on-going to gather and provide observations on the whole coupled system in order to analyse the seasonal-to-interannual variability of the water cycle and to estimate the water budget. The LOP relies on the current operational observing systems and existing long-term observatories in hydrology, oceanography and meteorology, not excluding the set-up of additional networks. The LOP covers the whole Mediterranean basin, and is devoted to develop and maintain the acquisition of the long-term time series required to study seasonal and interannual variability.
Enhanced Observation Period (EOP)
An Enhanced Observation Period (EOP) is foreseen for both budget and process studies. The EOP is envisaged to last at least 4 years, embracing the SOP periods (see below). However EOP periods may cover specific parts of the year only, e.g. autumns for heavy precipitation, extending to winter for severe cyclogenesis and strong winds. The EOP is based on the enhancement of existing research observatories and operational observation networks.
Special Observation Periods (SOPs)
Special Observation Periods (SOP) last several months. They aim at providing detailed and specific observations to study key processes of the water cycle in Target Areas (TA). In addition to the EOP observation framework, dedicated ground-based, shipborne and airborne means will be deployed during the SOPs.
The first EOP/SOP series
The first HyMeX EOP/SOP series is planned over the North-Western Mediterranean target area in 2012-2013. SOP1, from 5 September to 6 November 2012, is dedicated to heavy precipitation and flash-flooding. SOP2 in February-March 2013 aims to study intense air-sea exchanges and dense water formation. Selecting this period of the year also allows to document Mediterranean cyclogenesis.
The implementation of observations is under the responsability of dedicated Task Teams for Observations - TTOs.
Access to Task Teams for Observations (TTO)
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HyMeX – Hydrological cycle in the Mediterranean Experiment 2010-2020
