A Terrain-Based RStudio Simulation of Glacier Water Redistribution from Alaska to Western U.S. Drought Zones

Abstract

This study investigates the climatic and operational feasibility of transporting glacial meltwater from Alaska to drought-prone regions in the western United States. Using a series of R-based simulations, we model seasonal meltwater runoff, potential evapotranspiration losses, and pipeline failure probabilities under variable environmental stressors. The results reveal a distinct seasonal pattern, with the highest meltwater availability and evaporation losses occurring during the summer months. Conversely, winter conditions pose increased risks of structural failure due to freeze–thaw cycles and external loading. Based on the pipeline’s hydraulic capacity of 1.56 m³/s, the system can deliver approximately 134,784 m³ of water per day—sufficient to meet the daily water needs of up to 898,560 urban residents. These findings highlight the critical need for climate-responsive pipeline design, adaptive seasonal flow management, and the implementation of comprehensive risk-mitigation strategies to maintain the resilience and sustainability of large-scale water transfer infrastructure.