On the performance of modified Palmer index

Abstract

From an examination of the drought conditions in two selected districts each from arid, semi-arid and dry subhumid climatic regions of tropical India on the basis of Palmer drought index it has been found that Palmer index fails to describe realistically the drought conditions in these climatic regions. The Palmer index has been modified to suit the tropical weather conditions in India. The modifications introduced are in respect of the weighting factor and drought severity equation. The modified drought index is observed to produce better and realistic results.