Revisiting parameter sensitivities in the variable infiltration capacity model across a hydroclimatic gradient

Abstract. Despite the Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC) model being used for decades in hydrology community, there are still parameters whose sensitivities remain unknown. Additionally, understanding factors that control spatial variations parameter is crucial given increasing interest obtaining spatially coherent fields over large domains. In this study, we investigate of 43 soil, vegetation and snow VIC 101 catchments spanning diverse hydroclimates continental Chile. We implement a hybrid local–global sensitivity analysis approach, using eight evaluation metrics to quantify sensitivities, with four them formulated from runoff time series, two characterizing processes, remaining based on evaporation processes. Our results confirm an overparameterization processes analyzed here, only 12 (i.e., 28 %) found be sensitive, distributed among soil (7), (2) (3) components. Correlation analyses show climate variables – particular, mean annual precipitation aridity index main controls sensitivities. our highlight influence leaf area simulated hydrologic regardless dominant types relevance hard-coded parameters. Based correlation interpretation patterns, provide guidance most relevant calibration according target prevailing type. Overall, presented here contribute improved behavior across watersheds physical characteristics encompass wide hydroclimatic gradient hyperarid humid systems.