An Open-Source Python Library for Water Balance Modeling

Abstract

Water balance modeling is an essential aspect of water management projects. This study presents WaterpyBal, a tool that generates spatial–temporal water balance models, focused on diffused precipitation and recharge modeling. WaterpyBal has flexible input data and modeling time intervals and integrates different stages of the water balance assessment, such as data interpolation and evapotranspiration and infiltration calculations, while taking into account soil characteristics and urban water cycle. WaterpyBal calculates water budget parameters such as recharge, deficit, and runoff and can be used to create maps, datasheets, and raster archives. WaterpyBal has a modular design that ensures its further development. This Python library is accompanied by the WaterpyBal Studio, a graphic user interface that facilitates the usage of WaterpyBal in water management projects. The functionality of WaterpyBal is demonstrated using a synthetic example. In essence, WaterpyBal supports sustainable groundwater management projects and ensures reproducible research results in these environmental fields.

Keywords: water balance modelling, soil water balance, python, urban water cycle