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Methods for Estimating the Magnitude and Frequency of Peak Streamflows for Unregulated Streams in Oklahoma Developed by Using Streamflow Data Through 2017

Scientific Investigations Report 2019-5143
Prepared in cooperation with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation
By: , , and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20195143

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Abstract

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, updated peak-streamflow regression equations for estimating flows with annual exceedance probabilities from 50 to 0.2 percent for the State of Oklahoma. These regression equations incorporate basin characteristics to estimate peak-streamflow magnitude and frequency throughout the State by use of a generalized least-squares regression analysis. The most statistically significant independent variables required to estimate peak-streamflow magnitude and frequency for unregulated streams in Oklahoma are contributing drainage area, mean-annual precipitation, and main-channel slope. The regression equations are applicable for stream basins with drainage areas less than 2,510 square miles that are not affected by regulation. The standard model error ranged from 31.28 to 49.32 percent for the different annual exceedance probabilities that were computed.

Annual-maximum peak flows observed at 212 USGS streamgages through water year 2017 were used for the regression analysis, excluding the Oklahoma Panhandle region. The USGS StreamStats web application was used to obtain the independent variables required for the peak-streamflow regression equations. Limitations on the use of the regression equations and the reliability of regression estimates for natural unregulated streams are described. Log-Pearson Type III analysis information, basin and climate characteristics, and the peak-streamflow frequency estimates for the 212 streamgages in and near Oklahoma are provided in this report.

This report contains descriptions of the methods that can be used to estimate peak streamflows at ungaged sites by using estimates from streamgages on unregulated streams. For ungaged sites on urban streams and streams regulated by small floodwater-retarding structures, an adjustment of the statewide regression equations for natural unregulated streams can be used to estimate peak-streamflow magnitude and frequency.

Suggested Citation

Lewis, J.M., Hunter, S.L., and Labriola, L.G., 2019, Methods for estimating the magnitude and frequency of peak streamflows for unregulated streams in Oklahoma developed by using streamflow data through 2017 (ver. 1.1, March 2020): U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2019–5143, 39 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20195143.

ISSN: 2328-0328 (online)

Study Area

Table of Contents

  • Abstract
  • Introduction
  • Data Development
  • Estimates of Magnitude and Frequency of Peak Streamflows at Streamgages on Unregulated Streams
  • Estimates of Magnitude and Frequency of Peak Streamflows at Ungaged Sites on Unregulated Streams
  • Application of Methods
  • Summary
  • Acknowledgments
  • References Cited
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Methods for estimating the magnitude and frequency of peak streamflows for unregulated streams in Oklahoma developed by using streamflow data through 2017
Series title Scientific Investigations Report
Series number 2019-5143
DOI 10.3133/sir20195143
Edition Version 1.1: March 2020; Version 1.0: December 2019
Year Published 2019
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Oklahoma Water Science Center
Description Report: v, 39 p.; Data Release
Country United States
State Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details