Abstract

GUAJARDO-PANES, Rafael Alberto et al. Spatial validation of climatological data and homogeneity tests: The case of Veracruz, Mexico. Tecnol. cienc. agua [online]. 2017, vol.8, n.5, pp.157-177.  Epub July 30, 2021. ISSN 2007-2422.  https://doi.org/10.24850/j-tyca-2017-05-11.

Given that the reliability of climate information is crucial for any type of research, it is important to use tools and methodologies that identify erroneous data resulting from data collection, faulty instrument sensors, transcription of information, and the relocation of stations. This paper describes a methodology to validate and identify anomalous records of rainfall and low and high daily temperatures. It presents: the development of a methodology to select stations based on the least possible amount of information, and verify its logical coherence; the development of a spatial validation process; and the use of the Pettitt and Buishand Standard Normal Homogeneity Test (SNHT) to validate climatological data and to test the homogeneity of data recorded at National Weather Service (SMN) stations located in the state of Veracruz and surrounding areas. In terms of rainfall data, we found that 72% of the stations met the homogeneity criterion, while for low and high temperatures only 31 and 30% met the criterion. Therefore, the data may be homogeneous, without taking into account seasonal cycles or conditions. Nevertheless, it is recommended that the suggested tests be used, taking into account cold and/or hot periods and any possible relationships with the dependence on rainfall (wet and/or dry periods).

Keywords : Homogeneity of variance test; Standard Normal Homogeneity Test (SNHT); Pettitt; Buishand; rainfall; temperature and validation data weather.