Author(s): Aisha Al Hashmi; Ahmed Hadidi

Linked Author(s): Aisha Al Hashmi, Ahmed Hadidi

Keywords: Radar; Satellite; Rain Gauges; GIS

Abstract: Accurate rainfall estimation is essential for the flash flood forecasting, especially for extreme events of short duration. On the other hand, rainwater is one of the most crucial freshwater resources in arid regions including Oman. As a response, this study aims at comparing rainfall estimates by using various approaches. Different methods for estimating rainfall typically result in different estimates. Series of rain events that occurred in the Sultanate, spanning north to south were selected for this comparison study. It covers extreme events such as Guno, Phet, Mekunu and Nilofar, where some of them considered disastrous and had a significant impact on the Sultanate. The study of these events aims as well to test the reliability of each method in different event intensities. Three data sources used for this comparison: TRMM/GPM satellite products, Precipitation Radar data from the Civil Aviation Authority in Oman (CAA), and rain gauges stations from both the CAA and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources (MAFWR). The methodology consisted primarily of importing rain data into ArcGIS. Couple of tools were used to transform this data into raster format and then raster calculator was used for comparison. Results anticipated that there would be a disparity in the extremely fierce events. Space born- and ground based-Radars provide high estimate in occurrences with minimal precipitation quantities. Also, they are employing a high approximation in occurrences involving small rainfall measurements.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3850/IAHR-39WC252171192022850

Year: 2022