Rainfall and Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) Curves in the United Arab Emirates

Mohsen Sherif, Rezaul Chowdhury, Ampar Shetty

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

6 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper discusses the spatial and temporal rainfall characteristics in the UAE. The country is divided into four climatic regions including the east coast, mountainous area, gravel plains, and the desert foreland. Available data from 42 rain gauge stations were used to develop relations among the four climatic regions and define the changes in the rainfall pattern during the last decade. The double mass curve technique was used to investigate the homogeneity of the data. Statistical moments of annual rainfall events were estimated for all stations. The 24-h annual maximum and the mean annual rainfall data for the four regions were analyzed to estimate the expected rainfall at different return periods using different methods. The rainfall data are presented using the intensity-duration-frequency curves that were derived from the point rainfall frequency analysis and the possible occurrence of flash floods in the different areas is discussed. It is concluded that the four regions have similar rainfall patterns but with significantly different magnitudes. The results of this study serve as a baseline data for all hydrological studies including design of dams, rehabilitation projects, and mitigation of possible flood hazards.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2014
Subtitle of host publicationWater Without Borders - Proceedings of the 2014 World Environmental and Water Resources Congress
EditorsWayne C. Huber, Wayne C. Huber
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Pages2316-2325
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9780784413548
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 1 2014
EventWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2014: Water Without Borders - Portland, United States
Duration: Jun 1 2014Jun 5 2014

Publication series

NameWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2014: Water Without Borders - Proceedings of the 2014 World Environmental and Water Resources Congress

Other

OtherWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2014: Water Without Borders
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPortland
Period6/1/146/5/14

Keywords

  • analysis
  • arid regions
  • intensity-duration-frequency curves
  • rainfall

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Water Science and Technology

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