Iranian Journal of Soil and Water Research

Iranian Journal of Soil and Water Research

Spatial–Temporal Analysis of Seasonal Precipitation Distribution in the Zagros Region with Emphasis on Elevation Classes

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
1 Geography, Faculty of Humanities, Lorestan University, Khorramabad
2 Geography-Human Faculty-Lorestan University-Khorramabad-Lorestan
3 Department of Geography, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
Abstract
Precipitation is one of the most important climatic elements and a key component of the hydrological cycle, playing a vital role in supplying water resources in mountainous regions. Understanding the spatial and temporal patterns of precipitation and their relationship with elevation is essential for sustainable water resource management. The present study aimed to investigate seasonal precipitation patterns across different elevation classes in the Zagros Mountains. For this purpose, MSWEP satellite-based precipitation data for the period 1990–2024 and the ALOS PALSAR Digital Elevation Model (DEM) were utilized. The study area was classified into five elevation zones: below 1,000 m, 1,000–1,500 m, 1,500–2,000 m, 2,000–2,500 m, and above 2,500 m. Temporal trends in precipitation were analyzed using the Mann–Kendall test and Sen’s slope estimator. In addition, the relationship between precipitation and elevation was assessed using Spearman’s correlation coefficient, while differences in mean precipitation among elevation classes were evaluated through one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Scheffé’s post hoc test. The results indicated that the highest annual mean precipitation occurred in the 1,000–1,500 m elevation class, whereas the lowest values were observed at elevations above 2,500 m. A negative relationship between precipitation and elevation was detected during autumn and winter, while the highest precipitation amounts in spring were recorded at mid-elevations. The findings suggest that precipitation patterns in the Zagros Mountains are not solely controlled by elevation but are also influenced by topographic conditions and the geographical position relative to moisture sources. These results can contribute to improved water resource management in Zagros.
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