The Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP) Combined Precipitation Dataset

TLDR

The GPCP Version 1 Combined Precipitation Data Set is a global monthly dataset (July 1987–December 1995) produced by merging low‑orbit microwave, geosynchronous infrared satellite estimates, and rain gauge observations onto 2.5° × 2.5° grids, and it also provides the individual input fields and their error estimates. Preliminary analyses indicate that the dataset broadly agrees with previous global precipitation studies and extends ENSO precipitation pattern analyses, though regional comparisons reveal systematic differences from standard climatologies.

Abstract

The Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP) has released the GPCP Version 1 Combined Precipitation Data Set, a global, monthly precipitation dataset covering the period July 1987 through December 1995. The primary product in the dataset is a merged analysis incorporating precipitation estimates from low-orbit-satellite microwave data, geosynchronous-orbit-satellite infrared data, and rain gauge observations. The dataset also contains the individual input fields, a combination of the microwave and infrared satellite estimates, and error estimates for each field. The data are provided on 2.5° × 2.5° latitude-longitude global grids. Preliminary analyses show general agreement with prior studies of global precipitation and extends prior studies of El Nino-Southern Oscillation precipitation patterns. At the regional scale there are systematic differences with standard climatologies.