New Satellite Methods Enhance Drought Detection in Amazon Basin

**A groundbreaking study led by researchers at the Military University of Technology Poland and Griffith University has developed an innovative approach to better detect and monitor hydrological droughts in regions such as the Amazon Basin.** This new method involves the combination of two advanced satellite-based techniques, the Global Positioning System (GPS) and the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE), to overcome their individual limitations. While GRACE offers reliable data on large scales, it lacks precision at local levels, and GPS data can be hindered by technical and environmental factors. **The research team surmounted these challenges by merging GPS and GRACE data, with a focus on vertical displacement, to improve the accuracy of tracking short-term drought events.** This resulted in the development of a multivariate drought indicator using statistical methods known as Frank copulas, which provided strong temporal consistency with existing drought indicators. The new indicator also showed strong agreement with in-situ river discharge data and satellite-based agricultural indices, enhancing the accuracy of drought monitoring. As climate change continues to increase the frequency and severity of droughts globally, this innovation offers a more comprehensive understanding and informs better water management strategies. **The study signifies a vital step forward in anticipating and responding to drought impacts, supporting adaptation plans and resource management in the face of climate challenges.**