Data on annual maximum streamflow at 104 gaging stations in the Central Appalachia region of the United States are analysed by regional frequency analysis using L-moments. Each of the four stages in regional frequency analysis is illustrated: screening of the data, identification of homogeneous regions, choice of a frequency distribution, and estimation of the frequency distribution. Particular emphasis is given to identification of homogeneous regions, which is usually the most difficult stage of the analysis. The main features of the analysis are the use of cluster analysis to tentatively identify homogeneous regions, and constant attention to hydrological reasoning in order to ensure that regions obtained by statistical procedures are also physically meaningful. (Dept420)
By: J. R. M. Hosking and J. R. Wallis
Published in: RC20349 in 1996
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