Response of groundwater levels to hydrologic conditions in karst aquifer system of northern Puerto Rico

Karst aquifers have unique characteristics that make them highly productive, but vulnerable to contamination. Groundwater flow in these highly heterogeneous aquifers range from diffuse to conduit flow modes, showing variable response to hydrologic events. The karst aquifer of northern Puerto Rico is characterized by a mixture of both diffuse and conduit flow modes. This work assesses the response of groundwater levels to different hydrologic events and conditions in various areas of the karst groundwater aquifer of northern Puerto Rico. Spatial and temporal data analytics methods were applied to precipitation and groundwater levels from multiple stations and sites along the study area. The analysis showed that there are sites with rapid response in groundwater levels after a rainfall event, whereas others have a slow response to rainfall events. The response is related to flow and recharge modes, antecedent moisture, and storage characteristics in the epikarst. This study will ultimately help in the prediction of flow and transport of contaminants in karst groundwater systems characterized by high primary and secondary porosity, such as those found in northern Puerto Rico.