Paola Santini Dosal

Undergraduate Student


Curriculum vitae



(689)200-0321


Marine Biology

University of Central Florida



Effects of Daily, Monthly, and Annual Rainfall Fluctuations in Central Florida From 1950-2022


Abstract


 The climate crisis is expected to have significant effects on precipitation patterns worldwide. To evaluate the changes in precipitation in Central Florida, this study analyzed annual and monthly totals as well as daily values for Orlando and Melbourne from 1950 - 2022. Daily rain data indicated large variations from 0 to more than 8 inches/day. However, no long-term trends were detected in high rainfall events (>1 inch/day). Monthly and annual rainfall totals both indicated significant changes in rainfall patterns as a result of climate change. The average annual rainfall total in Orlando was about 50 inches per year for the period of record. In contrast, the average annual rainfall total at the Melbourne station significantly increased from around 37 in 1950 to 52 inches per year in 2022. Total precipitation at both stations showed considerable annual variability, ranging from 30 to 70 inches per year. In addition, monthly rainfall totals also showed long-term trends. Total rainfall generally increased in the months of January, June, August, September, and December at both stations, while monthly totals decreased for February, March, and October. Interestingly, July showed a slight decrease in total rainfall in Orlando but increased in Melbourne during the period of record. The remaining months showed either small or no changes in monthly totals. These changes in precipitation are critical as they can have a profound impact on ecosystems, and access to drinking water, and affect the occurrence of floods and droughts. As such, it is essential to continue monitoring precipitation patterns and their effects on the environment to mitigate the potential consequences of the climate crisis. Additional research is needed to confirm these trends at other sites in central Florida. 
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