Generalization of streamflow characteristics from drainage-basin characteristics

摘要: Definition of the natural streamflow in all streams, gaged or ungaged, is one principal objectives datacollection program Geological Survey. This report describes results using statistical multiple-regression analyses to provide a generalized definition four widely separated regions eastern, central, southern, and western areas conterminous United States. In each study region, every long-term, virtually record was characterized by 71 more flow indices. These indices represented magnitudes high, low, medium flows also distributions time. Numerous topographic climatic were defined describe drainage basin above site record. Multiple-regression then relation between characteristic drainage-basin characteristics. The provided measures accuracy relation. Results regression indicate that characteristics can be accurately humid Eastern Southern than arid Western Central regions, high flows, low only weakly defined. Standard deviations monthly annual found significantly related Some time (serial correlation skew coefficients) could better described regional averages. Regression relations presented this may used estimate many natural-flow at any regions. addition, knowledge streamflows 2 STREAMFLOW CHARACTERISTICS provides