Trend analysis of extreme meteorological parameters in Lower Ceyhan basin

Water is an essential resource for humanity and all other life forms. The examination of meteorological and drought events that affect the existence of water resources and bodies is important for future life. In addition, with the global climate change, the examination of meteorological events gains importance. For this reason, the extreme meteorological data of the Lower Ceyhan Basin, which has important agricultural lands, is investigated. The parameters used in the analyses are the annual maximum total precipitation deficit, annual maximum total excess precipitation, annual maximum total precipitation deficit duration, annual maximum total excess precipitation duration and annual minimum, maximum and average temperature. For precipitation data examination, Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) method used. The homogeneity of the data obtained by SPI was checked by the Wallis and Moore Test, while the trend analysis was performed by the Mann-Kendal Test. The slope of the trend was calculated by employing the Sen's Slope Test, the change point was determined by using the Buishand Range Test. In addition, both the Standard Normal Homogeneity Test and Buishand Range Test were applied to the temperature data in determining the change point. The findings of this research will be useful to water resource management decision-makers in the Ceyhan River Basin in assessing the impact of droughts and planning drought mitigation strategies to avoid future risks.