Hydrologic Impacts of Thawing Permafrost—A Review

Core Ideas This review synthesizes the state of the science in permafrost hydrology. Observed and projected hydrologic impacts of permafrost thaw are discussed. Characterization, modeling, and knowledge gaps of permafrost systems are identified. Translating results between multiple scales in cold regions presents a challenge. Opportunities for advancement in the field of permafrost hydrology are described. Where present, permafrost exerts a primary control on water fluxes, flowpaths, and distribution. Climate warming and related drivers of soil thermal change are expected to modify the distribution of permafrost, leading to changing hydrologic conditions, including alterations in soil moisture, connectivity of…

• NA
  National Aeronautics and Space Administration
• UO
  University of Calgary
• KT
  Killam Trusts
• UG
  U.S. Geological Survey
• NS
  Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada