The effects of climate change on the hydrology and groundwater of Terceira island (Azores)

Abstract

Until recently the water flowing from rain fed springs was abundant enough on Terceira (Azores, Portugal) and groundwater exploration was limited to the Lajes basin. This paper discusses the effects of climate change on the hydrology of Terceira and presents an estimate of the size of the fresh water lens underneath the whole island of Terceira using fault orientation as an indication for conductivity anisotropy. Longer periods of drought are thought to be one of the effects of greenhouse warming for Terceira and the exploration and exploitation of the freshwater lens may become necessary