Monthly Streamflow Forecasting Using Convolutional Neural Network

Monthly streamflow forecasting is vital for managing water resources. Recently, numerous studies have explored and evidenced the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) models in hydrological forecasting. In this study, the feasibility of the convolutional neural network (CNN), a deep learning method, is explored for monthly streamflow forecasting. CNN can automatically extract critical features from numerous inputs with its convolution–pooling mechanism, which is a distinct advantage compared with other AI models. Hydrological and large-scale atmospheric circulation variables, including rainfall, streamflow, and atmospheric circulation factors are used to establish models and forecast streamflow for Huanren Reservoir and Xiangjiaba Hydropower Station, China. The artificial neural network (ANN) and extreme learning machine (ELM) with inputs identified based on cross-correlation and mutual information analyses are established for comparative analyses. The performances of these models are assessed with several statistical metrics and graphical evaluation methods. The results show that CNN outperforms ANN and ELM in all statistical measures. Moreover, CNN shows better stability in forecasting accuracy.