cross-posted from: https://aussie.zone/post/284951
https://aus.social/@Andbaker/110659675026162005 - one author on Mastodon
Similar to this: https://aussie.zone/post/145846
In a world-first study, we have used caves to show the decades-long decline in rainfall in south-west Australia has reduced the replenishment of groundwater in the region to an 800-year low.
The region’s drying climate means rainfall may no longer be reliably replenishing its groundwater.
In caves, we can directly observe water on its way to becoming groundwater.
Preferential flow is an important mechanism for rainfall recharge of groundwater.
Groundwater supplies three-quarters of the water used in the region and future groundwater use is expected to increase.___
Try the phys.org link for more info:
https://phys.org/news/2023-06-current-rainfall-recharging-groundwater-southwest.html
All they’re saying, I think, is that the water isn’t recharging and the total amount is dropping. Unless something changes (like excessive rain), it will only get lower.