Clustering the Diurnal Cycle of Precipitation Using Global Satellite Data

The diurnal cycle of precipitation (DCP) is a fundamental component of the precipitation cycles across various temporal scales. However, the absence of a comprehensive and intuitive clustering description of the DCP, including precipitation amount, frequency, intensity, and seasonality on the global scale, has impeded understanding of climate impacts on society. This study investigates the diurnal cycle and its seasonal differences in global precipitation using hierarchical clustering and high‐resolution satellite precipitation data. Results indicate that regions with coastal and topographic complexity exhibit intricate clustering patterns globally. Significant inter‐cluster differences suggest that the precipitation amount and frequency have stronger diurnal cycles than that of the precipitation intensity. Seasonal cluster transitions indicate that the global DCP exhibits significant seasonal differences. This study provides multiple sets of information‐rich and user‐friendly maps of the DCP, enhancing research on sub‐daily precipitation mechanisms and their climatic impacts. Plain Language Summary The diurnal precipitation cycle significantly impacts human society and ecosystems, with spatial variations across the globe. Some regions experience concentrated precipitation at specific times of the day, while others display a more even distribution. However, there is a need for a clearer understanding of these spatial variations. This study employs a hierarchical approach to categorize the global diurnal precipitation cycle using high‐resolution satellite data. Our findings highlight that the diurnal cycle of precipitation amount and frequency is most pronounced in summer. These maps provide richer details than conventional methods and are easier to interpret when comparing seasons. Similar to established climate classifications, these global diurnal precipitation cycle maps offer valuable insights for advancing research into the diurnal cycle of precipitation. Key Points Hierarchical clustering and high‐resolution data reveal intricate global patterns of the diurnal cycle of precipitation (DCP) Diurnal cycles of precipitation amount and frequency are stronger than that of intensity, and exhibit significant seasonal differences We provide detailed, user‐friendly DCP maps that include amount, frequency, intensity, and seasonality