Performance of the probability distribution models applied to heavy rainfall daily events

Abstract

Probabilistic studies of hydrological variables, such as heavy rainfall daily events, constitute an important tool to support the planning and management of water resources, especially for the design of hydraulic structures and erosive rainfall potential. In this context, we aimed to analyze the performance of three probability distribution models (GEV, Gumbel and Gamma two parameter), whose parameters were adjusted by the Moments Method (MM), Maximum Likelihood (ML) and L -Moments (LM). These models were adjusted to the frequencies from long-term of maximum daily rainfall of 8 rain gauges located in Minas Gerais state. To indicate and discuss the performance of the probability distribution models, it was applied, firstly, the non-parametric Filliben test, and in addition, when differences were unidentified, Anderson-Darlling and Chi-Squared tests were also applied. The Gumbel probability distribution model showed a better adjustment for 87.5% of the cases. Among the assessed probability distribution models, GEV fitted by LM method has been adequate for all studied rain gauges and can be recommended. Considering the number of adequate cases, MM and LM methods had better performance than ML method, presenting, respectively, 83% and 79.2% of adequate cases.Index terms: Probability distribution models, intense rainfall, statistical inference, non-parametric statistical tests. RESUMOEstudos probabilísticos de variáveis hidrológicas, como a precipitação pluvial diária máxima, constituem-se um importante instrumento de apoio para o planejamento e gestão de recursos hídricos, principalmente quando associados ao dimensionamento de estruturas hidráulicas e potencial erosivo. Neste contexto, objetivou-se analisar o desempenho de três distribuições de probabilidades (GEV, Gumbel e Gama a dois parâmetros), cujos parâmetros foram ajustados pelos métodos dos Momentos (MM), da Máxima Verossimilhança (ML) e dos Momentos-L (ML), aplicados às séries históricas de precipitação diária máxima de 8 estações pluviométricas, localizadas no centro oeste de Minas Gerais. Para a verificação da melhor combinação distribuição de probabilidade e método de estimativa dos parâmetros das distribuições, aplicou-se o teste de aderência de Filliben, e, complementarmente, quando não identificadas diferenças, utilizou-se dos testes de Anderson Darlling e Qui-quadrado. A Distribuição de Probabilidades de Gumbel apresentou melhor desempenho, ajuste em 87,5% dos casos. Entre as distribuições de probabilidades avaliadas, a GEV ajustada por ML, apresentou aderência para todas as estações pluviométricas, podendo ser indicada. Considerando o numero de ajustes verificados, os métodos de estimação dos parâmetros MM e ML apresentaram melhor desempenho do que o método ML, apresentando, respectivamente, 83% 79.2% de casos adequados.Termos para indexação: Distribuição de probabilidades, chuvas intensas, inferência estatística, testes estatísticos não paramétricos.

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