What is meant by interception in hydrology?

Interception in hydrology refers to the process where precipitation is caught and retained by vegetation and man-made structures such as buildings and pavements before it reaches the ground. This process plays a significant role in the hydrological cycle, as it can influence the amount of water that eventually infiltrates into the soil or contributes to surface runoff.

When precipitation occurs, a portion may be intercepted by leaves, branches, and other surfaces. This retained water can either evaporate back into the atmosphere or eventually drip to the ground as the surfaces become saturated. The efficiency of interception can vary depending on various factors, including the type of vegetation, the density of the canopy, and the intensity of the precipitation event.

Understanding interception is essential in hydrology because it affects water balance calculations and has implications for flood forecasting, watershed management, and the design of sustainable urban environments.