Spatio-temporal analyses of correlation between NOAA satellite RFE and weather stations’ rainfall record in Ethiopia

The study analysed monthly satellite RFE (rainfall estimates) from NOAA (National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration) and monthly rainfall records (January 1996–December 2006) collected from weather stations by NMA (National Meteorological Agency of Ethiopia). Can the RFE data be used reliably to analyse seasonal rainfall variability? After doing spatio-temporal analyses of the two datasets, a significant correlation during the important rainy seasons, summer and spring and a low correlation during winter was shown. In conclusion the RFE images can be used reliably for early warning systems in the country and to empower decision makers on the consequences caused by the changes in the magnitude, timing, duration, and frequency of rainfall deficits on different spatial and temporal scales.