Impact of Drought in Northeastern Algeria: Comparative Study of the SPI and SPEI Índices

Abderrahmane Ziari; Abderrahmane Medjerab

doi:10.24857/rgsa.v18n9-078

Authors

Abderrahmane Ziari https://orcid.org/0009-0009-3048-5591
Abderrahmane Medjerab https://orcid.org/0009-0002-9751-8617

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24857/rgsa.v18n9-078

Keywords:

Drought Characteristics, Northeast Algeria, Pareto General Distribution, SPI-SPEI

Abstract

Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate drought trends in Annaba, Algeria, considering global warming and extreme weather, using quantitative indices for improved drought comprehension and prediction.

Theoretical Framework:The study assesses changes in drought frequency and severity in the Annaba region of Algeria due to global warming and extreme weather conditions. It employs quantitative indices to enhance drought understanding and prediction.

Methodology: The study analyzes temperature and precipitation data (1981-2021) from an Annaba weather station to assess drought characteristics.Standardized indices (SPI, SPEI) and extreme value analysis (Generalized Pareto Distribution) are used to quantify drought intensity, duration, and temperature impacts.

Findings: Our analyses reveal a critical divergence in drought assessment tools. While stable monthly temperatures suggest a constant influence on evapotranspiration, the SPEI index (including temperature) indicates increasing drought compared to the precipitation-only SPI. This highlights the importance of considering temperature alongside precipitation for accurate drought assessment.

Research Practical and Social Implication: This study emphasizes the significance of considering the interplay among temperature, precipitation, and evapotranspiration for better understanding and predicting drought changes in the Annaba region, Algeria. These insights are crucial for sustainable water resource management and climate change adaptation in the region.

Originality/Value:This study distinguishes itself by its comprehensive analysis of long-term climate data to examine drought trends in a specific region (Annaba, Algeria) severely impacted by climate change. By comparing the effectiveness of two drought indices (SPEI and SPI), it offers valuable insights into how to improve drought assessments by considering the role of temperature in evapotranspiration. This research enriches the existing literature on drought management and climate change adaptation, providing a valuable case study for similar arid and semi-arid regions worldwide.

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