Author(s): Miguel Costa; Rodrigo Maia

Linked Author(s):

Keywords: No Keywords

Abstract: The multiplicity of hydrometeorological characteristics that influence the time evolution of a drought situation may justify why events of that type are becoming more frequent, long lasting and complex. As a result, the development of combined drought indicators that blend several physical indicators into a single indicator is becoming more important. In Portugal, drought monitoring still relies mainly on single hydrometeorological indices, thus existing an opportunity to develop a combined drought indicator. In this regard, this study proposes the development of a Combined Prolonged Drought Indicator (CPDI) for the Portuguese part of the Portuguese-Spanish Guadiana River basin, a region of the Iberian Peninsula regions most affected by prolonged droughts. Having on its basis the Spanish Prolonged Drought Indicator methodology, the proposed indicator considers variables representing the different drought types, as well as the intensity and duration of the events. The CPDI aim is to achieve a comprehensive and harmonized instrument able to improve the Portuguese national drought assessment, under the frame of the Water Framework Directive and European Drought Guidelines, as also to ensure a more coordinated transboundary drought management with Spain.

DOI:

Year: 2026