Validation of a high-resolution precipitation database (CHIRPS) over Cyprus for a 30-year period

•A comparison of CHIRPS, TRMM, and E-OBS data is performed over the Mediterranean.•CHIRPS and TRMM data were found to be highly correlated over the Mediterranean.•CHIRPS data are moderately correlated with E-OBS data.•CHIRPS data are highly correlated with rain gauge data over Cyprus.•The mean difference between CHIRPS data and rain gauges increases over time.

A study for a 30-year period (1981–2010) for a new precipitation database is performed over the island of Cyprus. Climate Hazards Group Infrared Precipitation with Station data (CHIRPS) is a more than 30-year quasi-global rainfall dataset, spanning 50°S–50°N (and all longitudes). Starting in 1981 to near-present, CHIRPS incorporates 0.05° resolution satellite imagery with in situ station data to create gridded rainfall time series. In this study, CHIRPS database is firstly compared to other precipitation databases over the Mediterranean basin. In the following, this study focuses over Cyprus, where a dense and reliable network of rain gauges is available. CHIRPS data are compared for the first time with in situ measurements in this area, for the aforementioned 30-year period. Monthly and annual comparisons are presented for each of the 0.05 × 0.05 degree cells overlaying the island of Cyprus. Results showed good correlation between CHIRPS values and recorded precipitation, although an overestimation of the in situ rainfall data has been noted during the last decade.