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CHIRPS Data

Overview

Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station data (CHIRPS) is a quasi-global rainfall dataset from the Climate Hazards Center. It incorporates satellite imagery with in-situ station data to create gridded rainfall time series.

Data Specifications

  • Provider: Climate Hazards Center (CHC)
  • Frequency: Daily
  • Data Latency: Approximately 3 weeks
  • Geospatial Resolution: 0.05° (approximately 5 km)
  • Temporal Coverage: 1981 to present
  • Data Format: NetCDF, GeoTIFF, BIL
  • Coverage Area: Quasi-global area spanning from 50°S-50°N and all longitudes

Variables Available

  • Daily Precipitation
  • Pentad (5-day) Precipitation
  • Monthly Precipitation

Key Features

  • Combines in-house climatology with satellite imagery and station data
  • Provides continuous historical record suitable for trend analysis
  • High spatial resolution makes it suitable for localized assessments

Use in Parametric Insurance

CHIRPS data is particularly valuable for:

  • Agricultural drought insurance
  • Water stress indices
  • Long-term climate risk assessment
  • Regions with limited ground observation networks, especially in developing countries

Implementation Status

  • Currently in implementation