Statistical Models and the Estimation of Low Flows

Abstract

He present paper provides a brief review of statistical models that are commonly used in the estimation of low flows both at sites with a reliable streamflow record and sites remote from data sources. Opportunities are identified for the regional estimation of low-flow characteristics at ungauged sites. The adaptation of the neighbourhood regionalization approach, commonly used in regional flood frequency analysis, can be extended to low-flow variables. Estimation approaches extending the usefulness of recession information in regional low-flow frequency analysis to ungauged sites using a canonical correlation analysis approach for the identification of hydrological neighbourhoods is described. The validity of recession parameters when estimated from very short hydrological data records is also discussed. Promising new directions for future research in the field of statistical low-flow frequency estimation are identified. © 2008, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.