Sensitivity of the Evapotranspiration Deficit Index to Its Parameters and Different Temporal Scales

Sound estimates of drought characteristics are very important for planning intervention measures in drought-prone areas. Due to data scarcity, many studies increasingly using less data-intensive approaches, such as the evapotranspiration deficit index (ETDI), estimations agricultural droughts. However, little is known about sensitivity this specific ETDI formula its parameters, and at different temporal scales. In study, a general formula, homologous was introduced used test parameters The tests time series remotely sensed Ruvu River basin Tanzania. parameter revealed that sensitive combinations resulted characteristics. scale showed characteristics, number events total durations, decreased increased. Thus, an inappropriate may lead misrepresentation To reduce uncertainty increase accuracy ETDI-based requires calibration use with small scales, respectively. These findings useful improving