Stream Gauging of Torrential Rivers of Eastern Eritrea

Abstract

To better evaluate the potential of projects in Eritrea, a national data collection network was established. Part of that network was two stream gauging stations located in the eastern slope region of the country. The design of these stations allowed for the lack of access in the area and for the flow regime, characterized by highly flashy and ephemeral sediment laden discharge. The stations consist of a pressure transducer housed in a well screen–type housing and solar-powered data logger. Stage and water temperature are logged every 20 min. Discharge is estimated from a stage-discharge curve generated from a survey of the channel and the use of a step-backwater approach in a numerical model. System operation has been transferred to the Eritrean Water Resources Department. After a year of evaluation, some modifications were made to the installations.