Analysis of data splitting on streamflow prediction using random forest
Diksha Puri, Parveen Sihag, Mohindra Singh Thakur, Mohammed Jameel, Aaron Anil Chadee, Mohammad Azamathulla Hazi
Abstract
This study is focused on the use of random forest (RF) to forecast the streamflow in the Kesinga River basin. A total of 169 data points were gathered monthly for the years 1991–2004 to create a model for streamflow prediction. The dataset was allotted into training and testing stages using various ratios, such as 50/50, 60/40, 70/30, and 80/20. The produced models were evaluated using three statistical indices: the root mean square error (RMSE), the mean absolute error (MAE), and the correlation coefficient (CC). The analysis of the models' performances revealed that the training and testing ratios had a substantial impact on the RF model's predictive abilities; models performed best when the ratio was 60/40. The findings demonstrated the right dataset ratios for precise streamflow prediction, which will be beneficial for hydraulic engineers during the water-related design and engineering stages of water projects.