An Assessment of Spatio Temporal Variation of Rainfall and Temperature Using Different Weather Station Types in Zaria, Kaduna State

Abstract

The concept of climate has gained much relevance because of its dynamic and complex nature and the significant influence it has on various aspects of the environment, including the threat of global climate change. Rainfall and temperature data for a period of 10 years (2006-2015) in three stations (A, B and C); Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR), Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) and Federal College of Education (FCE), were statistically analysed. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was also used to test for variation of monthly and annual rainfall-temperature distribution. In addition, the mean annual temperature shows that Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR) has the highest mean annual temperature in 2011, Federal College of Education (FCE) has its highest in 2013 and Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) has its highest in 2012. For the rainfall variability, the mean monthly rainfall increases in an ascending manner from the month of March that has the lowest to August that has the highest peak. The study also reveal the mean annual rainfall for year 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2012 receives the maximum rainfall at the three stations while year 2011 receives the lowest rainfall at all stations. However, it is recommended that Standardized synoptic stations to give uniformed and accurate data in monitoring weather and climatic conditions should be put in place. Further studies should be carried out for continuous monitoring of the trend of rainfall and temperature to provide up to date information. Lastly, Government and private individuals should take the issue of climate change seriously so as to combat the negative effect it has on activities dependent on climate.