Abstract:
The study investigates the effects of climate change on the performance and sustainability of boreholes in Borama City, Somaliland, which relies heavily on groundwater for water supply. The research employs advanced groundwater modeling tools, specifically the Aquifer Test 10.0 model, to analyze pump test data and evaluate the hydraulic properties of local aquifers, including transmissivity and storativity statical variation. Data from pump tests and climate records were analyzed using Aquifer test 10.0 Ensemble model, ssp1-2.6, and ssp3-7 models to simulate aquifer behavior and predict borehole performance and climate projections in analysis Microsoft Excel. Results indicate significant variations in aquifer transmissivity and storativity, with values ranging from 4.555 to 54.28 m²/day and 1933.2 to 9.817E-5, respectively. These variations highlight the heterogeneous nature of the aquifers in Borama. Additionally, the study reveals a consistent decline in borehole yields, averaging a 24.6% % reduction for the Afraq1 borehole and a 19.4% % reduction for the Al-Hayat borehole over a year, attributed to decreased precipitation and increased evaporation rates. Trend correction techniques were employed to isolate the impacts of climate change on water levels, and the data showed a strong positive correlation between corrected and observed water levels. The study also highlights the influence of atmospheric pressure on hydraulic heads, emphasizing the minimal yet notable impact of temperature fluctuations. The findings underscore the need for adaptive groundwater management strategies that incorporate climate projections. Enhanced monitoring, sustainable extraction practices, and improved borehole designs are recommended to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. This research contributes to the development of robust water resource management practices, ensuring the resilience of water supply systems in semi-arid regions of Borama City. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating scientific research with practical management efforts to sustainably manage groundwater resources in the face of changingclimatic conditions.
