Umudike Journal of Engineering and Technology

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike


MODELING RAINFALL DURATION DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM FOR IMO STATE

Ufomba, C. J.
Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri. PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.

Egwuowu, C. C.
Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri. PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.

Chikwue, M. I.
Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri. PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.

Ihedioha, T.
Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri. PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.

Uzoh, U. E.
Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri. PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.



ABSTRACT

Rainfall models play a crucial role in understanding and predicting rainfall behavior, which is essential for flood forecasting, drought monitoring, water resource management, and agricultural planning. This study developed a multiple linear regression model for Imo State, Nigeria, using five climatological parameters, with air temperature and sunshine ratio emerging as dominant predictors. The model achieved an R² value of 0.99, indicating a near-perfect fit. Performance evaluations confirmed its reliability for regional applications, including drainage design and erosion control. Analysis revealed a negative relationship between rainfall and both air temperature (coefficient = -29.14) and sunshine ratio (coefficient = -22.04), suggesting that increased solar exposure and warmer conditions reduce precipitation. The highest air temperature (30.4°C) occurred in February, while the lowest (26.4°C) was recorded in September. Sunshine ratios ranged from 10.94 to 11.77 mJ/m² over the study period (2001–2020), with peak values in December. These findings provide critical insights for climate adaptation strategies and sustainable water management in Imo State.


Keywords: Rainfall, Climatology, Model, Forecast, Season


https://doi.org/10.33922/j.ujet_v11i2_1
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Published
Monday, July 14, 2025

Issue
Vol. 11 No. 2, December 2025

Article Section
GENERAL

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