Evaluation of Rainfall Characteristics and Temporal Trends in Rewa District, Madhya Pradesh using Statistical Methods

Abstract

Rainfall serves as a critical input parameter in the design and analysis of hydraulic and water conservation structures, bridges, culverts, canals, stormwater sewers, and road drainage systems. Hence, a detailed statistical assessment of rainfall for a given region is essential to derive dependable design values and to support effective agricultural and water management planning. The present study focuses on the frequency and statistical analysis of seasonal rainfall data for Rewa District, Madhya Pradesh. Daily rainfall records spanning a 20-year period were analyzed to estimate design rainfall values using Weibull’s formula. Rainfall variability was quantified through statistical parameters including the mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation (CV). The analysis revealed that the minimum mean monthly rainfall occurred in June (5.22 cm), while the maximum mean monthly rainfall was recorded in July (12.28 cm). The lowest coefficient of variation was observed in August, followed by July, indicating relatively consistent rainfall during the peak monsoon period. In contrast, the highest CV was noted in June, reflecting high variability in early monsoon rainfall. Overall, Rewa District experiences normal weather conditions in June, while July, August, and September display mixed rainfall behavior, characteristic of monsoon variability in central India.