An in-depth statistical analysis of the rainstorms erosivity in Europe

Heavy rainstorms play a central role in the water-driving soil erosion processes. An in-depth knowledge about temporal and spatial erosivity of rainfall events is required to gain better understanding processes optimize protection measures efficiency. In this study, spatiotemporal distribution more than 300,000 erosive measured at 1181 locations, part Rainfall Erosivity Database European Scale (REDES) database, studied shed some new light on Europe. are statistically investigated through Lorenz curve derived coefficients such as Gini coefficient (G). Additionally, seasonal characteristics most less compared investigate across The G shows largest values inequality inter-annual Alpine region, mostly due large number with smaller erosivity. While for other parts Europe, described by small high events. slightly decreases from south north while no clear regional patterns can be detected. average 11% (ranging 1 24%) all contribute form 50% total Furthermore, higher tend occur later year that take place earlier. To our knowledge, study first one addressing event scale using covering almost whole continent. Scientifically findings represent major step towards large-scale process-based modelling while, practically, they provide elements support national local monitoring programs.