Output Files

The model supports multiple output modes controlled through the output block in the config.yaml file. Output behavior is governed by the flag, and additional options depend on which output strategy is selected. All outputs are saved as NetCDF files. Outputs are generated for each time chunk specified based on the runoff input options.

Configuration Options

output:
  flag: 1                            # 0 = no output, 1 = by stream level, 2 = specific links
  level: 4                           # Required if flag = 1
  resolution: 15
  link_list_filename: "mylinks.csv"  # Required if flag = 2
  series_filepath: "/output/mytimeseries"
  snapshot_filepath: "/output/snapshot"
  max_output: 0                             # Maximum time chunk calculation flag. 0 = no output, 1 = calculate maximum by link
  max_output_filepath: '/output/max_output' # Required of max_output = 1

Option Definitions

Flag = 0: No time series outputs

• No time series will be saved. Snapshots will be saved.
• Useful for benchmarking, debugging, or for spin up of initial conditions.

Flag = 1: Output by Stream Level

• Outputs data for all stream links with a stream level greater than or equal to the specified level. Note: the minimum level that can be output is 1. Level 0 cannot be saved out.
• Recommended when working with hierarchical basins or when only major channels are of interest.

Flag = 2: Output by Link List

• Outputs data only for the links explicitly listed in the link_list_filename CSV file.
• Best for focusing on points of interest such as gages, outlets, or calibration points.

Example CSV for mylinks.csv:

100045
100231
100899
101007

Each line corresponds to a LinkID to include in the outputs when flag = 2. Users should avoid placing level 0 stream links in this file as correct output cannot be guaranteed!

Time series resolution

The resolution allows users to save out the time series at a specified increment (e.g., every 15 or 60 minutes). This value is the instantaneous value at every increment. Therefore, the peaks of the hydrographs could be missed if the resolution is set too large. We recommend leaving at a resolution of either 15 or 60 minutes.

Snapshots

Restart files (called "snapshots") are generated during each write out after a chunk of runoff has been processed. These can be used to restart simulations by specifying the netCDF option in the Initial Conditions options.

Maximum streamflow

Files containing the maximum instantaneous streamflow for all stream links for a give time chunk are calculated after each chunk of runoff has been processed. They are in the same format as the snapshots but contain the maximum streamflow value from the simulations conducted during the time chunk at the 1-minute resolution. Users can use this option to avoid saving entire hydrographs if performing peak flow analysis.