Trends and variability in evapotranspiration at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh

Evapotranspiration demands and trends were analysed for Jabalpur region in eastern Madhya Pradesh by assessing reference evapotranspiration (ETo), energy balance and aerodynamic components for 31 years (1983-2013). Analysis indicated multiple trends in annual ET and annual aerodynamic component of ETo. In the first half of the study period, a clear decreasing trend was seen with 1994 and 1999 years having low ETo values. Later, the ETo started increasing and a high ETo of 1425 mm was observed in the years 2009 and 2010. Energy balance component has shown a negative trendwith the reduction in temperature and sunshine hours.Trends in five-year average ETo values indicated a reduction in kharif season whilethe ETo increased in rabi season. Present study highlights the necessity to understand ETo of the region before planning and management.