The use of double mass analysis in testing the consistency of climatological records

TitleThe use of double mass analysis in testing the consistency of climatological records
Publication TypeConference Proceedings
Year of Conference1950
AuthorsDiamond, M.
Conference Name18th Annual Western Snow Conference
Series TitleProceedings of the 18th Annual Western Snow Conference
Date PublishedApril 1950
PublisherWestern Snow Conference
Conference LocationBoulder City, Nevada
KeywordsPrecipitation analysis, Statistical analysis
Abstract

Double mass analysis was used to investigate the consistency of precipitation records in the Upper Colorado River basin. Residual mass curves, represented as the accumulated excess or deficiency of rainfall in relation to time, are plotted for each precipitation station's record. A horizontal curve indicates no major change in the average precipitation. Stations with nearly horizontal residual mass curves are used in preparing a precipitation base pattern. The precipitation record of a single station is plotted accumulatively against the accumulated precipitation base pattern. A straight double mass curve indicates a consistent precipitation record. A bend in the curve indicates that the records have been affected by artificial changes in exposure or observer. The results of the study indicate that double mass technique is reliable when there is a high correlation between factors being compared.