Estimation of Evapotranspiration under the Effect of Climate Change in Egypt

Accurate estimation of evapotranspiration is important for water resources management. In this study, using historical meteorological data of 21 stations, the FAO Penman-Monteith method (FAO56-PM) was applied to predict the reference evapotranspiration (ETo) in Egypt during the late of this century (2071–2100) under the effect of the representative concentration pathways scenario (RCP4.5). The highest values of ETo were recorded in the southern part of the country with an average of 7.53 mm/day in Asyut. These values gradually decreased from south to north, where the lowest ETo was recorded in the northern part of the country with an average of 3.73 mm/day in Baltim. ETo is expected to increase at the late of the century throughout the country, and the highest values will occur in the Western Desert (53% in Kharga). On the other hand, the northern part of the country will witness a slight increase in ETo to a maximum of 8% in Baltim. Moreover, the increase of ETo in the summer season is more significant than in other seasons. These results would help in impact assessment and adaptation strategies of climate change impacts on evapotranspiration in Egypt.