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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:
(1) A Long-term Observation Period (LOP) lasting about 10 years 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 will enhance 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 will have to cover the whole Mediterranean basin, and will be devoted to develop and maintain the acquisition of the long-term time series required to study seasonal and interannual variability.
(2) Enhanced Observation Periods (EOP) 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.
(3) Special Observation Periods (SOP) lasting several months. They will 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
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