The hydrological significance of the European Alps

The new sheet 6.4. of the Hydrological Atlas of Switzerland contains important hydrological information on the catchments and discharges of the 4 main streams coming from the Alps: Rhein, Rhône, Po and Danube. The contribution of the Alps to the total discharge is 34% for the Rhine, 41% for the Rhône, 53% for the Po and 26% for the Danube. These proportions are even higher during summer months. Conclusion: The hydrology of the Alps is of European concern.