Influence of Precipitation Effects Induced by Large-Scale Irrigation in Northwest China on Soil Erosion in the Yellow River Basin

Large-scale irrigation can alter the regional water cycle process, which changes structure and spatiotemporal distribution of local downwind precipitation, impacting soil erosion in both irrigated areas surrounding regions. However, effects large-scale on vulnerable have not been investigated. The study used high-resolution climate model (RegCM4) revised universal loss equation (RUSLE) to examine irrigation-induced precipitation Northwest China frequency, distribution, intensity Yellow River Basin (YRB) under different Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs). response characteristics its relationship with slope, elevation, land use type were analyzed as well. results indicate that most regions YRB is below moderate, covering 84.57% basin. Irrigation leads a 10% increase summer indices (e.g., total wet-day consecutive wet days, number days ≥ 1 mm, heavy 12 mm) northwest also change circulation, resulting reduced southeast basin, particularly RCP8.5 scenario. transformation between low-grade high-grade relatively stable small influence precipitation. display strong spatial heterogeneity, inter-annual intra-annual fluctuations, uncertainties. findings this be helpful for policymakers resource managers better understand impacts environment develop sustainable management strategies.