GLOW-S River Width dataset

Introduction:

The GLOW-S dataset provides a comprehensive record of global river widths, captured with high-resolution Sentinel-2 imagery. This dataset focuses on delivering an enhanced spatial and temporal analysis of river widths, suitable for diverse hydrological and environmental studies.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Data Collection and Processing:

1. Image Source: River width data were extracted from Sentinel-2 satellite imagery accessed via Google Earth Engine, utilizing higher resolution capabilities than previous datasets based on Landsat.
2. Extraction Methodology: Following validated methods from prior research (Feng et al., 2019; 2022), the dataset involves:
• Identification of rivers observable in Sentinel-2 images.
• Construction of cross-sections for width extraction.
• Application of quality filters on images to ensure accuracy in width measurements.
• Determination of water extent and subsequent river width calculation at each cross-section for images spanning 2017 to 2022.

Dataset Features:

• Temporal Coverage: Data spans from 2017 to 2022, capturing seasonal and interannual variations in river width.
• Spatial Resolution: Utilizes the superior spatial resolution of 10m from Sentinel-2 for detailed river width analysis.

Postprocessing: When multiple observations for the same cross-section and date exist, the dataset averages these widths to enhance usability.

Column names:

• riverID (cross section identifier): R<COMID>XS<Section ID>
• date (image capture date): YYYY-MM-DD
• width (river width captured in meters)

Additional data: The shapefiles of cross sections are also attached alongside.