A methodology to classify extreme rainfall events in the western mediterranean area

What is it about?

The master equation of intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) relationship for Barcelona was obtained. Extreme rainfall events in this area were classified in four main classes, related to their temporal structure. An index giving some information about the severity of storms taking into account the contribution of different scales implied in rainfall processes was proposed.

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Photo by freddie marriage on Unsplash

Photo by freddie marriage on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The duration and frequency of extreme rainfall intensities are important climatological features to be considered in meteorology, hydrology and civil engineering. Their knowledge is essential for planning hydraulic works, roads and sewage systems, and for designing rainwater drainage networks in large infrastructures. Moreover, it could be very useful in order to detect the climatic changes and evaluate their possible effects in a given area.