An outlook on the applicability of satellite precipitation products for monitoring extreme precipitation events in Nepal Himalaya

Precipitation is one of the dominant drivers of water-induced natural hazards. Under changing climate, precipitation variability and extreme events (amount and intensity) are aggravated in the Himalayan countries like Nepal. Effective management of likely hazards entails accurate information about precipitation's spatiotemporal distribution, often lacking in developing countries like Nepal. In a poorly gauged region, the evaluation of satellite-based precipitation estimates (SPEs) would have a greater significance to get insights on the applicability in the field of multi-hazards. In this paper, we illustrate the importance and relevance of SPEs in diagnosing hydrometeorological hazards in near-real-time, highlighting a couple of case studies. This study also evaluates the performances of SPEs in detecting several extreme precipitation indices. Finally, we provide insight into how the SPEs could give a baseline in early disaster preparedness for decision-makers in Nepal Himalaya. Taking the SPEs as complement information together with available weather forecasts, a sound decision can be made from all levels (government, non-government organisations, and communities).This study suggests researchers and academics explore and generate local-level early warning systems for flash floods, landslides, and debris flow.