Standard Deviation difference between ALEXI PET rates and Monthly Mean PET rates for April 8, 2011, across the United States. Image Credit: DEVELOP Goddard Team.

Authors: Michelle Morawski, Kevin Mathew, Benjamyn Ward

Mentors/Advisors (affiliation): John David (Science Systems and Applications Inc. (SSAI)/GSFC), Fredrick Policelli (NASA/GSFC), Dr. Amita Mehta and Dr. Ana Prados (University of Maryland Baltimore County/GSFC)

Past/Other Contributors: Scott Cook, James Madison University

Luciano Rodriguez, Chapman University

Paul Skym, University of Maryland, College Park

David Spelman, University of Florida

Dr. Dimitar Ouzounov, Science Systems and Applications Inc./Goddard Space Flight Center (Past Science Advisor)

Team Location: Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland

Abstract: With flood events expected to increase in number and intensity, flood monitoring methods will require better information on evapotranspiration (ET), stream flow, and water extent to help provide more accurate data for improved flooding forecasts. Satellite-derived products for ET are uniquely suitable for measuring variations in this parameter over large areas. Using the Coupled Routing and Excess Storage (CREST) flood model, this project improved the decision-making processes through the use of enhanced satellite ET data, which advanced the ability to calculate stream flow and flooded area calculations. The methodology of the project involved an initial evaluation process of the satellite based Atmosphere-Land Exchange Inverse (ALEXI) ET product using datasets in the study area for comparison with Flux Towers. The ALEXI derived ET, National Mosaic and Multi-Sensor QPE (NMQ) Stage IV Precipitation, Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM), and a Hydrological data and maps based on SHuttle Elevation Derivatives at multiple Scales (HydroSHEDS) 250-meter Digital Elevation Model were used as inputs into CREST to run the hydrological model. Hydrographs and a comprehensive assessment of hydrologic conditions and discharge variation were produced for the Upper Missouri River area. Results of the flood modeling effort were evaluated with partner organizations to determine the potential enhancement of water resources, flood monitoring, and disaster management efforts from satellite-derived ET products.

Transcript available here.