CHIRPS contribution data in studying rainfall erosion in Oued Kert Watershed (Eastern Rif, Morocco)

This study examines rainfall erosion dynamics in Oued Kert basin in Morocco, focusing on the influence of seasonal rainfall variations on soil erosion. Optimizing the use of rainfall data from free satellite sources is meant primarily to help natural resource managers make decisions. The research acquired precise precipitation estimates for the basin via satellite rainfall data, particularly the CHIRPS collection adjusted over a 41-year period (1981–2022), which showed a strong correlation (R2 = 0.89) with ground-measured data. Important results show notable seasonal fluctuations in rainfall erosion rates: most intensive rainfall erosion occurs in winter and autumn, reaching 313 MJ/ha/year in winter and 239 MJ/ha/year in autumn, especially in hilly areas. Less severe rainfall erosion results in spring (52–94 MJ/ha/year) and summer (7–15 MJ/ha/year). Usually, ranging from 0 to 1800 MJ/ha/year, rainfall erosion is greater in the southwestern part of the basin because of the greater amount of precipitation there. The seasonal rainfall erosion densities range from an average of 1.08 MJ.mm.ha⁻1.h⁻1 in winter to 0.76 MJ.mm.ha⁻1.h⁻1 in spring, 0.37 MJ.mm.ha⁻1.h⁻1 in summer, and 0.94 MJ.mm.ha⁻1.h⁻1in autumn. These studies demonstrate the importance of controlling the soil and water resources of Oued Kert basin while taking into account seasonal precipitation variations, as they illustrate the manner in which variations in rainfall influence the mechanisms of soil loss. Minimizing the risk of rainfall erosion in the region and effective land management require knowledge of these mechanisms.