The Effect of the Groundwater Inflow on the Water Quality of the Tisza in the Middle Tisza District

Abstract

The Tisza is considered to be one of the most significant rivers in Hungary. In addition to extreme
floods in recent decades, periods of water scarcity are challenging the water industry. Climate change will also strengthen this process. The likelihood of extreme floods and droughts is increasing. The river also provides drinking water supply to the Szolnok area, which could be endangered during low-water periods. During the recession of the river, when the groundwater level is higher than the water level of the Tisza, the draining effect of the river prevails. In this case, there is a chance for groundwater to release different pollutants into the river. The aim of this paper is to show that the groundwater inflows may pose a threat to the quality of the river during low water periods. Sampling procedures and the water quality test results are also presented.