Evaluation of rain gauge network using entropy theory: Comparison of mixed and continuous distribution function applications

In this study we compared applications of mixed and continuous distribution functions to the theory of entropy for the evaluation of rain gauge networks. The use of a mixed distribution function to evaluate rain gauge networks has an important advantage of considering rainfall intermittency in both time and space. Parameters of both mixed and continuous distribution functions were estimated using the daily rainfall data collected in the Choongju Dam Basin, Korea. The optimal number of rain gauge stations is, then, decided by using the entropy theory. The optimal number of rain gauge stations estimated by applying the mixed distribution function was found to be much smaller, but still reasonable, than that estimated by applying the continuous distribution function; mostly due to the small wet probability and the high coincidence of daily rainfall between rain gauge stations.