Optimizing river flow rate predictions: integrating cognitive approaches and meteorological insights

The models used in this study make it possible to make more accurate predictions about river discharge. These results can influence flood protection strategies, water resource management, and hydropower generation. Due to their ability to capture the underlying temporal relationships in the data, time series forecasts have become increasingly popular in recent years. This study examines the critical processes in river forecasting for the Kizilirmak River basin. We begin with a look at data collection and preparation, followed by an overview of time series forecasting models. Finally, we look at the process of model testing and selection. Seven techniques were used to predict streamflow from meteorological data: Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Firefly-based ANN (FFA-ANN), Random Forest (RF), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Generalized Linear Regression (GLR), Support Vector Machines (SVM), Least Squares Boosted Trees (LSBT). The performance of the models was evaluated using the statistical indicators. The LSBT, RF, and ANN models provided the best results for Kayseri, Kırşehir, and Gemerek stations, respectively. The RF, ANN and GLR models provided second best results for these stations, respectively. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2024.