Numerical Simulation of Subsurface‐Water Rise in Kuwait City a

The residential areas of Kuwait City have been affected by a rise in the subsurface‐water level in recent years, causing waterlogging and flooding of the basements of buildings. To study this phenomenon, and to ascertain its causes, a numerical aquifer simulation model was developed. The aquifer model showed that, over the period 1961‐1985, the net yearly addition to the aquifer storage due to the contribution from man‐made sources like sewage systems, irrigation, and water distribution networks, ranged from 8,300 to 10,100 m 3 d −1 , causing a subsurface‐water‐level rise of about 5 m locally, resulting in high water‐table conditions. A maximum local rise in the water table of 2.5 m was predicted between the end of 1985 and 1990, if no remedial actions are undertaken. Preventive methods to reduce or eliminate recharge from man‐made activities would help control the water‐level rise and even lower the water table in affected areas. Remedial measures to lower and maintain the subsurface‐water level at acceptable depths would entail the withdrawal of significant quantities of ground water.