Water loading: a neglected factor in the analysis of piezometric time series from confined aquifers (Note)

Abstract

Seasonal changes in the volume of near-surface water cause synchronous changes in the piezometric head of any deeper confined aquifer exhibiting a barometric response. Such loading-induced head changes occur independently of recharge effects. Time series models applied to confined-aquifer piezometric sequences may give erroneous results unless prior data adjustment is made to allow for water loading effects.