Articles | Volume 30, issue 18
https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-30-6039-2026
https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-30-6039-2026
Research article
 | 
25 Sep 2026
Research article |  | 25 Sep 2026

Freeze–thaw processes influence shallow groundwater recharge sources and pathways in the Qinghai Lake Basin: insights from water isotopes

Wenhao Zhang, Xiaoyan Li, Yuanhong Deng, Guangrong Hu, and Fangzhong Shi

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Cited articles

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Short summary
Groundwater plays a crucial role in maintaining baseflow in rivers and ensuring water supply, particularly in alpine regions where the freeze–thaw cycle exerts a strong influence. This study takes the Qinghai Lake basin as a case example to quantify the dynamic characteristics of groundwater recharge sources and pathways during the FT periods. Our research demonstrates that in alpine permafrost regions, freeze-thaw processes regulate water storage and transport.
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