Distinct Hydrologic Pathways Regulate Perennial Surface Water Dynamics in a Hyperarid Basin

Abstract In water‐stressed hyperarid basins, questions mount over the impacts of anthropogenic groundwater extraction and climate‐driven perturbations on groundwater‐surface water interactions resilience ecosystem‐critical surface water. Coupling with observations from Sentinel‐2 data provides an unprecedented opportunity to evaluate connectivity local aquifers following intense precipitation events in arid basins. Surface area level were analyzed for trends precipitation, including peak lag time, post‐peak recession rates, changes hydraulic gradients. Results indicate variable large between change fluctuations upgradient freshwater aquifer, whereas downgradient brine‐to‐brackish aquifer indicated virtually no aquifer. Comparison response distinct responses based physical relationship body Lumped parameter modeling inundation also constrains possible hydrologic dynamics post‐precipitation response. While modeled influx seems primarily controlled by watershed hydraulics rather than direct aquifers, adjacent levels coupled indicates that are connected bodies through discharge via subsurface infiltration. Modeling results imply existence brine‐adjacent basins relies aquifers. Our further support marginal systems can serve as a critical recharge mechanism