Numerical Modeling of Saltwater Intrusion in the Rmel-Oulad Ogbane Coastal Aquifer (Larache, Morocco) in the Climate Change and Sea-Level Rise Context (2040)

Abstract

Many coastal aquifers have experienced seawater intrusion (SWI) into fresh groundwater aquifers. The principal causes of SWI include over-pumping and events such as climate change (CC) and rising sea levels. In northern Morocco, the Rmel-Oulad Ogbane coastal aquifer (ROOCA) supplies high-quality groundwater for drinking water and agriculture. This favorable situation has led to increased pumping, resulting in environmental challenges such as dropping water table and SWI. Furthermore, the climate has resulted in less recharge, with an estimated annual precipitation of 602 mm and an average temperature of 18.5 °C. The goal of this study is to determine how CC, over-pumping, and sea-level rise (SLR) affect SWI. Computational groundwater and solute transport models are used to simulate the spatial and temporal evolution of hydraulic heads and groundwater solute concentrations. The calibration is based on steady and transient groundwater levels from 1962 to 2040. SWI simulations show that the NW sector of the coastal area would be polluted, with the toe reaching 5.2 km inland with a significant salinity (15–25 g/L). To protect the fresh water in the reservoir from SWI, enhanced groundwater development and management approaches for this aquifer are required, such as artificial recharge from surface water.

Management of saltwater intrusion using 3D numerical modelling: a first for Pacific Island country of Vanuatu

“…Moreover, without the input–output patterns from a numerical model, one cannot develop accurate AI-based models. Therefore, numerical models are crucial for developing curative solutions to reduce SWI (Hamidi et al, 2021 ). Numerical modelling has been extensively applied to manage SWI around the globe (e.g.…”

Salinity-Induced Changes in Heavy Metal Behavior and Mobility in Semi-Arid Coastal Aquifers: A Comprehensive Review

“…Coastal groundwater serves billions of populations worldwide while facilitating fresh and saline water discharge into the marine environment [25,26]. The interaction between terrestrial freshwater and saline water triggers biochemical reactions, effectively altering the composition of various solutes such as metals and their associated discharge towards the sea or ocean [5].…”

Climatic Modeling of Seawater Intrusion in Coastal Aquifers: Understanding the Climate Change Impacts

“…Groundwater aquifers are facing challenges related to seawater intrusion, due to climate change and anthropogenic activities. The quantity and quality of groundwater resources are being impacted by surface water depletion, rising temperatures, and sea level rise [1][2][3]. In the face of our changing climate, the delicate balance between freshwater and the encroaching sea has become a critical concern for coastal communities and environmental stewards worldwide [4].…”