Friday October 7 CSL Meeting

Analysis of spatial-temporal variations of drought in Oklahoma

Presenter: Liyan Tian
Time: Friday 7 October, 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Location: 805 O&M

Abstract: Drought is a frequent natural hazard in Oklahoma. It has caused major losses to the economy, agriculture, wildlife, and ecosystems. A comprehensive understanding of the spatial-temporal variations of drought in Oklahoma is important for drought management and mitigation.

A better method for drought quantification is vital for a comprehensive understanding of the spatial-temporal variations of drought. Drought indices are widely used method for drought monitoring. There are more than 100 drought indices are available for different types of drought monitoring and different regions. The performance of drought indices varies from regions and different applications. Comparison of the performance of several widely used drought indices for agricultural drought monitoring in Oklahoma will be critically important for a better drought monitoring in Oklahoma.

Analysis of the spatial-temporal variations of drought in Oklahoma is important for drought management. The spatial-temporal variations of drought in Oklahoma have not been analyzed in previous studies. In this research, a comprehensive study of the spatial-temporal variations of drought in Oklahoma, including the patterns of drought, and what causes these patterns, especially, the impact of climate oscillations on the spatial-temporal variations of drought in Oklahoma, will be conducted. Based on the results of impacts of climate oscillation on drought, a drought prediction model will be developed. These drought forecasts are valuable for drought management.

Correlations between multiple teleconnections and monthly precipitation anomalies from 1901-2010 in each region (no lag).