The reduction continuous rank probability score for evaluating discharge forecasts from hydrological ensemble prediction systems

Abstract

AbstractEnsemble prediction system (EPS) meteorological forecasts are increasingly being used as input to hydrological models in order to extend flood‐warning lead‐times and to improve forecasts and the knowledge of their uncertainty. Probabilistic skill scores classically used in meteorology are usually also utilized for assessing the quality of hydrological ensemble forecasts. However, the different river discharge magnitudes can make difficult the interpretation and comparisons of these scores, as it is for the continuous rank probability score (CRPS). In this letter, a novel ‘Reduction’ CRPS (RCRPS), which takes into account the different river discharge magnitudes, is proposed, and its usefulness is exhibited. Copyright © 2013 Royal Meteorological Society