Kenneth Ekpetere

Kenneth is a GRA working with Jude Kastens, associate research professor at the KARS program. Kenneth's research primarily focuses on the application of stochastic modeling to Probable Maximum Precipitations (PMP) derived from annual extreme rainfalls, and the subsequent linkages to extreme flood occurrences commonly referred to as Probably Maximum Floods (PMF). These concepts are crucial for developing models that simulate extreme flood scenarios and other worst-case event scenarios. 

In his investigation of the PMP and PMF phenomena, Kenneth employs a multi-faceted approach that combines statistical modeling, physics-based hydrologic models, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and remote sensing technologies. Additionally, he contributes his expertise to various projects funded by the National Science Foundation, where he conducts analyses of diverse natural events such as floods, droughts, wildfires, tornadoes, ice storms, blizzards, and wind events. These analyses are essential for enhancing infrastructure planning and resilience strategies. 

Kenneth also occasionally develops web applications designed to study historical, current and near-real-time events, and to facilitate data retrieval. Some of these remote sensing applications are accessible to the public at Google Earth Engine. 

He actively collaborates with organizations including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the NASA Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) team, and the Kansas Water Office (KWO) to further advance his research and contribute to the broader field of geospatial science.