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Rainfall variability and indices of extreme rainfall-analysis and perception study for two stations over Central Himalaya, India

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Abstract

The analysis of rainfall pattern and indices of extreme rainfall events is performed for two meteorological stations located in the Central Himalayan Region which is highly vulnerable to rain-induced hazards. The records of these rain-induced disasters suggest that such events are generally observed in later part of monsoon season, when soil is saturated after monsoon rains. An attempt is made here to test trends of 19 different extreme rainfall indices that have been widely used in the literature, using daily rainfall data for two urban centres (Nainital and Almora) over the period 1992–2005. We have used statistical tools such as Sen’s method and Mann–Kendall test for detection of trend in annual rainfall, monsoon rainfall, number of rainy days and 1-day extreme rainfall. Principal component analysis gives the correlation between different extreme rainfall indices. Time series of principal components are representing the trends of extreme indices, their variation and interrelation between different indices. The perception study conducted in the same sites indicates that extreme rainfall events and change in rainfall amount and timing are well perceived by the local people.

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Acknowledgments

We are thankful to the Director G. B. Pant, Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, for his motivating attitude and timely help during the work.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Watershed Processed and Management Theme, G. B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, 263643, India

    Sneh Joshi & Kireet Kumar

  2. University School of Environment Management, GGS Indraprastha University, New Delhi, 110075, India

    Varun Joshi

  3. D.S.B. Campus, Kumaun University, Nainital, India

    Bimal Pande

Authors
  1. Sneh Joshi
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  2. Kireet Kumar
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  3. Varun Joshi
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  4. Bimal Pande
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Correspondence to Sneh Joshi.

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Joshi, S., Kumar, K., Joshi, V. et al. Rainfall variability and indices of extreme rainfall-analysis and perception study for two stations over Central Himalaya, India. Nat Hazards 72, 361–374 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-013-1012-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-013-1012-4

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