An objective classification of rainfall events on the basis of their convective features: Application to rainfall intensity in the northeast of Spain

A system of rainfall events classification on the basis of their hydrometeorological characteristics is proposed. The objective is the characterization of the different event classes and their application in modelling intensity-duration-frequency curves and design hyetographs. A parameter related to the greater or lesser convective character of the precipitation, designated as beta*, is defined, while its distribution throughout the entire series of the sample is studied. In addition, the main features of the different classes obtained and their relationship to floods and rainfall damage events have been analysed. The intensity series of the Jardi pluviograph (Barcelona, Spain) between 1927 and 1981 is used as a sample series. Copyright (C) 2001 Royal Meteorological Society.