RODEO: An algorithm and Google Earth Engine application for river discharge retrieval from Landsat

Satellite remote sensing of river discharge (RSQ) algorithms provide a useful source of observations to supplement river gauge records. RSQ algorithms have existed for over a decade yet their widespread use has been impeded by a lack of operational usability and quantitative characterization of uncertainty. Here we present RODEO, an algorithm for estimating river discharge using Landsat observations in near-real time. RODEO is validated with 456 gauges (median Kling-Gupta efficiency = 0.3) and uses a novel quantile rating curve technique that pairs Landsat river widths with discharge estimates from a global hydrologic model. RODEO also characterizes the uncertainty of RSQ estimates (estimated root-mean-square error = +7%), enabling RSQ retrievals to be used for data assimilation into hydrologic models. With the goal of expanding the RSQ user base, the RODEO algorithm is implemented as a freely available, off-the-shelf cloud-based Google Earth Engine application that provides RSQ estimates across North America from 1984-present.

Automated summary

RODEO algorithm, validated with 456 gauges, accurately estimates river discharge and characterizes the uncertainty of RSQ estimates, enabling data assimilation into hydrologic models.