Regional flood frequency and spatial patterns analysis in the Pearl River Delta region using L-moments approach

The Pearl River Delta (PRD) has one of the most complicated deltaic drainage systems with probably the highest density of crisscross-river network in the world. This article presents a regional flood frequency analysis and recognition of spatial patterns for flood-frequency variations in the PRD region using the well-known index flood L-moments approach together with some advanced statistical test and spatial analysis methods. Results indicate that: (1) the whole PRD region is definitely heterogeneous according to the heterogeneity test and can be divided into three homogeneous regions; (2) the spatial maps for annual maximum flood stage corresponding to different return periods in the PRD region suggest that the flood stage decreases gradually from the riverine system to the tide dominated costal areas; (3) from a regional perspective, the spatial patterns of flood-frequency variations demonstrate the most serious flood-risk in the coastal region because it is extremely prone to the emerging flood hazards, typhoons, storm surges and well-evidenced sea-level rising. Excessive rainfall in the upstream basins will lead to moderate floods in the upper and middle PRD region. The flood risks of rest parts are identified as the lowest in entire PRD. In order to obtain more reliable estimates, the stationarity and serial-independence are tested prior to frequency analysis. The characterization of the spatial patterns of flood-frequency variations is conducted to reveal the potential influences of climate change and intensified human activities. These findings will definitely contribute to formulating the regional development strategies for policymakers and stakeholders in water resource management against the menaces of frequently emerged floods and well-evidenced sea level rising.