This study proposes to investigate the runoff response of watersheds to extreme precipitation (rainfall) recorded in basins of the western U.S. and to understand the basin and storm conditions that produce the largest floods. Simply stated, this study seeks to answer the question, “Do the largest precipitation events produce the largest floods and, if not, why?” While this question may seem relatively simple, there are many factors that can complicate the relationship between rainfall and floods. The results will be applied to the best available regional climate change scenarios that predict how characteristics such as precipitation intensity, duration or seasonality may change in the western U.S. over about the next three decades or over an alternate, appropriate timeframe.
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This study proposes to investigate the runoff response of watersheds to extreme precipitation (rainfall) recorded in basins of the western U.S. and to understand the basin and storm conditions that produce the largest floods. Simply stated, this study seeks to answer the question, “Do the largest precipitation events produce the largest floods and, if not, why?” While this question may seem relatively simple, there are many factors that can complicate the relationship between rainfall and floods. The results will be applied to the best available regional climate change scenarios that predict how characteristics such as precipitation intensity, duration or seasonality may change in the western U.S. over about the next three decades or over an alternate, appropriate timeframe.
