River flow regime alterations. Causes and effects in different climate systems
Thesis event information
Date and time of the thesis defence
Place of the thesis defence
University of Oulu, Lapinsali (L3)
Topic of the dissertation
River flow regime alterations. Causes and effects in different climate systems
Doctoral candidate
Master of Science Alireza Sharifi
Faculty and unit
University of Oulu Graduate School, Faculty of Technology, Water, Energy and Environmental Engineering
Subject of study
Environmental Engineering
Opponent
Professor Hamid Moradkhani, College of Engineering, University of Alabama
Custos
Professor Ali Torabi Haghighi, Water, Energy and Environmental Engineering Research Unit, Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
River flow regime alterations. Causes and effects in different climate systems
This thesis investigates the causes and effects of river flow alteration across different climate systems. It examines case studies from arid and semi-arid regions (Zayandeh-Rud River basin and Iran’s central plateau), humid regions (southern Caspian Sea (SCS)), and cold regions (Torniojoki River basin in Finland). The research develops a framework to quantify the impact of anthropogenic (AD) and climatic (CD) drivers on river flow and assesses their consequences.
This thesis includes five peer-reviewed publications, and one submitted manuscript. The findings reveal that CD has reduced inflows to the Zayandeh-Rud Dam, while AD is the primary cause of inflow reduction and water body shrinkage in Iran’s central plateau. In the humid SCS region, AD has caused a decline in inflows to the Caspian Sea. In contrast, the cold Torniojoki River basin has experienced increased flow due to CD.
This research highlights the urgent need to address hydrological alterations worldwide. Developing effective strategies is essential to mitigate the impacts of human activities and climate change on river systems. Future efforts should prioritize improving climate adaptation strategies, leveraging advanced remote sensing and data analytics for real-time hydrological monitoring, and investing in ecosystem-based solutions to restore natural processes and enhance resilience to extreme weather events.
This thesis includes five peer-reviewed publications, and one submitted manuscript. The findings reveal that CD has reduced inflows to the Zayandeh-Rud Dam, while AD is the primary cause of inflow reduction and water body shrinkage in Iran’s central plateau. In the humid SCS region, AD has caused a decline in inflows to the Caspian Sea. In contrast, the cold Torniojoki River basin has experienced increased flow due to CD.
This research highlights the urgent need to address hydrological alterations worldwide. Developing effective strategies is essential to mitigate the impacts of human activities and climate change on river systems. Future efforts should prioritize improving climate adaptation strategies, leveraging advanced remote sensing and data analytics for real-time hydrological monitoring, and investing in ecosystem-based solutions to restore natural processes and enhance resilience to extreme weather events.
Last updated: 17.10.2025