Spatiotemporal Analysis of Meteorological Drought Using Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) in Gabiley Region, Somaliland

Abstract

Drought is a common natural disaster worldwide, with varying durations, severity levels, and spatial extents. This study aimed to model the spatiotemporal variation of meteorological drought events in the Gabiley region of Somaliland. The study utilized primary data collected from the meteorological station in Gabiley and CHIRPS (Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station) data to develop the standardized precipitation index (SPI) at a 3-month timescale. The results of the study revealed that the study area was characterized by drought and received inadequate precipitation, resulting in catastrophic droughts that negatively impacted the socioeconomic situation of the community. Mild-to-severe meteorological drought events occurred every two to three years, with the most severe droughts occurring in 1998, 2002, 2009, 2015, and 2017. Specifically, the year 2015 experienced the most severe meteorological drought in the region during the studied period. The predominant type of drought was a mild year in the study area. The SPI was found to potentially identify meteorological drought, making it a useful tool for policymakers as they develop drought adaptation and mitigation policies. This study provides valuable information that can benefit local authorities and policymakers in creating drought mitigation and adaptation strategies in the Gabiley region.