Long-term homogenized air temperature and precipitation datasets in Romania, 1901–2023

Abstract

In this study, we present RoClimHom, the first long-term homogenized dataset of daily air temperature and precipitation measurements for Romania, comprising mean (Tavg), maximum (Tmax), and minimum (Tmin) temperatures at 2 m height (T2m) and precipitation (PREC) from 156 weather stations spanning the 1901–2023 period. This work addresses the historical inconsistencies caused by changes in measurement techniques, station relocations, and operational practices. The homogenization methodology involved multiple stages, including data preprocessing, quality control, and breakpoint detection, resulting in a robust dataset that eliminates non-climatic biases. RoClimHom overcomes the potential biases in air temperature and precipitation measurements induced by changes in location, procedures, instruments, or personnel of the weather stations, which commonly influence natural climate variability. The new homogenized and gap-free climate dataset serves as an essential resource for academia and policymakers, facilitating climate change assessment and supporting a wide range of climate applications.