Estimation of temporal R-factor based on monthly precipitation data

Abstract

This study assesses temporal variation in rainfall erosivity of Gurushikhar, Rajasthan, (India) on a monthly precipitation basis in the form of the USLE/RUSLE R-factor. The objective of the paper is to theoretically calculate rainfall erosivity when the unavailability of high temporal resolution pluviographic rainfall data such as Indian condition. In the study, the rainfall erosivity has been calculated using the Modified Fourier Index. The results show that the annual rainfall erosivity factor (R) value highest in the year 2017 and lowest in 1974. Conferring to an examination through NASA, earth's global superficial temperatures in 2017 ranked as second warmest since 1880. Therefore, the rainfall amount was more in 2017 compared to past years, and also rainfall erosivity value suddenly increased in 2017, achieved the highest value. They concluded that the heavy precipitation events in the year are lead to an increase in rainfall erosivity value and risk of soil erosion.