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Abstract:
The variability and spatial distribution of snow in the mountainous regions of the Czech Republic (CR) is significant. In addition, climate change and weather extremes cause greater dynamics. New possibilities for snow monitoring arises thanks to the automation of weather stations, or the use of Remote Sensing and camera systems. However, the observers (experts or stakeholders) and expedition measurements play an important role. The automation of measurements and cooperation on many levels leads to the expansion of knowledge about the distribution and properties of snow also in the largest mountain range of CR, in the Šumava (Bohemian Forest). The longest Czech river Vltava, with the biggest dam reservoirs Lipno and Orlík, rises at the Šumava. Moreover, the National Park was established in this region and subsequent natural disturbances have caused significant changes in the vegetation cover. Several automatic stations were installed here to measure basic variables. The measurements are often supplemented by cameras with time-lapse images. On many other locations, the snow is measured on snow stakes by area managers. Snow data from the entire Šumava have been collected and processed. The dynamics of accumulation and ablation are evaluated, climatological maps are processed, and snow water content are calculated for forecasting practice and research. On the main streams of the Šumava, gauge profiles are used to measure water flow. The combination of monitoring methods and accurate snow measurement brings new insights and challenges for hydrological and ecological research in the complex and relatively vast mountainous terrain of the Šumava Mountains.
