A new FEH rainfall depth-duration-frequency model for hydrological applications

Recent research funded by the Joint Environment Agency/Defra Flood and Coastal Risk Management R&D Programme has developed a new statistical model of point rainfall depth-duration-frequency (DDF) for the UK. The analysis made use of an extensive set of annual maximum rainfall depths for daily and recording raingauges across the UK. The new model will eventually replace the Flood Estimation Handbook (FEH) rainfall DDF model to provide estimates of rainfall depth for storm durations ranging from under 1 h to 8 days and return periods from 2 years to >10 000 years. The paper reports on current progress to generalise the new model so that it can be applied at any point, catchment or user-defined area, and potential links between the new model and hydrological applications of weather radar are highlighted.