Analysis of GPS Gradient Parameters for Rainfall Prediction

Abstract

In this paper, the behavioral change in the atmospheric delay gradient during a rainfall event has been analyzed. The horizontal gradient of the delay results from the azimuthal asymmetry of the atmospheric refractivity. Resultant gradient estimated from two components (Gradient in the north direction and gradient in the east direction) manifests a consistent trend before precipitation. The gradient vector exhibits an increasing magnitude and a change in direction with rainfall in comparison to a non-rainy event. So, atmospheric delay gradient can be considered as a useful feature for rainfall forecasting by virtue of its clear pattern before rainfall which can be used to improve the prediction accuracy of rainfall event.