Climatic Constraints to Water Resource Development in the Sudano—Sahelian Zone of Nigeria

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Abstract
This paper examines some of the climatic variables of the Sudano—Sahelian zone of Nigeria, through reference to relevant literature, some field checks and descriptive statistics, in order to determine the limits set by these variables on the amount of water available and the duration of its availability. It is found that climatic variables, particularly rainfall and evapotranspiration conditions, constitute great constraints to both natural water availability and water resource development in the zone. It is noted that while constraints associated with climatic variations and drought conditions cannot be eliminated, their effects can be ameliorated through the development of both ground and surface water resources. However, the development of water resources is also adversely affected by the same set of climatic variables, particularly droughts and evapotranspiration. To check excessive evaporation from surface water bodies, it is recommended that reservoirs and canals be made deep, with limited surface areas, and that sluices on dams should be at variable levels for different seasons. To check the effects of rainfall and wind of high intensity, it is suggested that catchment area protection and other conservation techniques be adopted.

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