Research Projects

The development of satellite precipitation products (sPPs) has been an active area of research in recent years, with numerous sPPs being developed to provide global precipitation data at high spatial and temporal resolutions. However, sPPs are indirect precipitation estimates, hence they are associated with bias and errors, particularly in regions with a complex topography and diverse climatological conditions such as India. As a result, choosing the best sPP for a region, remains a challenge for hydrologists and researchers in India. The proposed project aims to develop a novel sPP product that is better suited to the complex climatological and topographical conditions of India. To achieve this objective, a comprehensive framework by employing a combination of various advanced techniques will be formulated. First, a reliable and accurate methodology will be developed to quantify and decompose the errors in sPPs into different components. Then, a novel bias correction method will be developed to reduce the magnitude of each error component. In addition, the study region (India) will be classified into different homogenous zones depending upon the source of errors. Then the relationship of errors with geophysical factors within each zone for different rainfall intensity will be quantify. The results from all these analyses will be combined in one study to develop a novel improved sPP for different regions across India. The performance of the new sPP will also be tested for its suitability in near real-time hydrological applications. The outcome of the project will assist hydrologists and researchers in selecting the best sPP for different regions in India. This could ultimately reduce uncertainty in hydrological and climatological models that rely on sPP products, particularly in poorly gauged or ungauged areas. Furthermore, this project presents an opportunity for real-time evaluation of rare events occurring in selected watersheds.