Continental differences in the variability of annual runoff-update and reassessment

Abstract

Continental differences in the variability of annual runoff were reassessed using an expanded precipitation database and an improved methodology for allocating precipitation and runoff stations to Köppen climate zones. Application of the new Köppen zone allocation methodology resulted in changes in Köppen zone for 44% of runoff stations. Statistical analysis of the data, stratified by continent and Köppen climate zone, confirmed the presence of continental differences in the variability of annual runoff and the conclusions of previous research. Variability of annual runoff for temperate Australia, arid southern Africa and temperate southern Africa was found to be higher than that for other c..