Spatiotemporal Application of the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) in the Eastern Mediterranean

The ever-increasing need for water, the alteration in climate, and its observed changes over recent years have triggered a lot of research studies associated with phenomenon drought. Within wider geographical region Mediterranean, relevant scientific subject seems to be great interest, since it is undoubtedly related number severe socio-economic consequences. This present effort focuses on evolution this particular time, within borders nine different countries Eastern Mediterranean (Athens, Greece—Europe; Constantinople, Turkey—Asia; Nicosia, Cyprus—Europe; Jerusalem, Israel—Asia; Amman, Jordan—Asia; Damascus, Syria—Asia; Beirut, Lebanon—Asia; Cairo, Egypt—Africa; Tripoli Libya—Africa). By applying Standard Precipitation Index (SPI), examining precipitation data at month level (January 1901 December 2020), utilizing Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) method, spatio–temporal variability drought events area was studied. In long-term droughts presented higher than usual volume, accordance 12- 24-month SPI, starting from mid-20th century. Similarly, Damascus similar pattern those Jerusalem. An upward trend frequency extreme last thirty years. same true terms duration dry periods. Drought also been central, southern, eastern regions Turkey. A downward Cairo based analysis monthly precipitation.