Title: Changes and variability of rainfall amounts and extreme indices in Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Authors: Yimer Mohammed; Asnake Yimam; Abiyot Legesse

Addresses: Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Dilla University, P.O. Box 419, Ethiopia ' Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Dilla University, P.O. Box 419, Ethiopia ' Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Dilla University, P.O. Box 419, Ethiopia

Abstract: This study made detailed analysis of variability and trends of rainfall in Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia using climate data tool. Its variability was examined by coefficient of variation, precipitation concentration index, and standardised rainfall anomalies whereas trends were evaluated using Mann-Kendall trend test and Sen's slope estimator. The finding indicated that rainfall variability was high during March-May and September-November which resulted in extended periods of driest years. Insignificant decreasing trends of rainfall amount at annual and seasonal (March-May) timescales were observed. However, most extreme events showed varying trends across studied stations. For example, all rainfall extreme indices showed decreasing trends in Yirgachefe and Kochere and significant increasing trends at Bule. Since climatic variability and trends have been changing in short distances, this type of local level study is thought important to take up to date and appropriate decisions on the management of agriculture, water, and flood risks.

Keywords: extreme indices; Gedeo; Mann-Kendall; trend; variability; Ethiopia.

DOI: 10.1504/IJETM.2024.135564

International Journal of Environmental Technology and Management, 2024 Vol.27 No.1/2, pp.1 - 22

Received: 29 Aug 2022
Accepted: 07 Dec 2022
Published online: 18 Dec 2023 *

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