Temporal and spatial patterns of the river flow and water temperature relations in Poland

Abstract Main aim of the study was to determine temporal and spatial patterns relations between monthly annual average river flow (RF) water temperature (WT) for 53 rivers in Poland. The research made use WT RF 88 gauges period 1971–2015. Correlations were established using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient similarity RF–WT determined Ward’s hierarchical grouping. It demonstrated that correlations negative (for >85% gauges) statistically significant (p<0.05) only 30% gauges. confirmed studied underwent seasonal changes. Positive clearly predominant winter months, while from April September these significant. also characterized by differences this had been separation seven groups gauge profiles distinguished with help grouping method. strongest apparent case mountainous rivers, which snow melt supply summer rainfall predominant, lakeland a considerable share groundwater supply. These classified as cold opposed cool lowland belt, weakest. results obtained may contribute elaboration an appropriate management strategy ecosystems, are assigned important economic environmental functions.