Kriging External Drift - The Most Powerful Guide

6/15/23, 5:47 PM Kriging External Drift: the most powerful guide
Kriging External Drift: the most

powerful guide.
https://giscourse.online/kriging-external-drift-the-most-powerful-guide/?fbclid=IwAR3AB0GZ7AoPRfEnVYz_v2mFyty5F4aCkoJtW2otePDose2jxj… 1/24
Welcome to the fascinating world of Kriging with

External Drift, a crucial methodology in spatial
interpolation. A wide range of scientific fields, not
limited to mineralogy, hydrogeology, geology, and
climatology, extensively employ this technique,
highlighting its significance within the Earth
sciences. If you harbor an interest in acquiring an
in-depth understanding of the application of this
robust method in your geospatial analyses, you’ve
aligned with an apt resource.
Presented to you by the GeoRGB Community, this

authoritative guide, accessible at
https://giscourse.online, lays out the crucial steps
to successfully execute Kriging with External Drift.
Adhering closely to these guidelines, you’ll pave the
way towards delivering precise and trustworthy
outcomes in your environmental endeavours.
Moreover, this technique will enhance your

comprehension of spatial data, empowering you to
make well-informed decisions in your
investigations. Don’t delay, embark on this
enlightening journey with us and elevate your
learning experience!
What is kriging with External Drift?
Kriging with External Drift (KED) is a method

employed in spatial interpolation. This approach
comes into play when we have a secondary
variable, also known as an external variable, which
exhibits a correlation with the primary variable
under study. We leverage this correlation to

enhance the precision of our estimations.
At the heart of Kriging with External Drift is a key

concept: the primary variable can be envisioned as
a blend of a deterministic function, often referred to
as the “drift,” and a stochastic or random element.
The secondary variable steps in to shape the drift.
Hence, the primary variable Z at any given spatial
location “s” can be articulated as a sum of a
deterministic function μ(s) and a random term ε(s).
Z(s)= μ(s)+ε(s)
Picture this, you are on a mission to forecast the

pollutant concentration in a river, which is your
primary variable. You’ve discovered that there’s a
correlation between this concentration and the
water temperature, your external variable. This is
where Kriging with External Drift comes into play. By
applying this technique, you can notably sharpen
the accuracy of your predictions.
Kriging with External Drift really shines when you

have readings of the secondary variable across the
entire interpolation grid, but only a few samples of
the primary variable in the study area. In these
scenarios, Kriging with External Drift steps up to the
plate, offering more precise estimates than your
standard ordinary kriging.
Kriging with External Drift bears a similarity to

Universal Kriging, but there’s a key divergence
between the two. While Universal Kriging relies on
geographical coordinates to identify trends in data,
Kriging with External Drift pivots to an external
variable to lay out these trends.
Data preparation for Kriging with External

Drift
Step 1: Data Collection
Gathering data stands as the initial step towards

any geospatial analysis, and here are a few key
pointers to keep in mind during this stage:
a. Pinpointing Samples: You require data from

locations where samples or readings have been
procured. Geographical coordinates or a projected
coordinate system, often UTM, are generally utilized
for this purpose. This information is vital for the
spatial analysis and the operation of Kriging with
external drift.
b. Primary Variable: You will need details about the

variable that you plan to interpolate. This could be
measurements of diverse types like mineral
concentrations, precipitation values, the depth of
groundwater, and so on.
c. Drift Variables (External): These represent

additional variables that you anticipate could
unravel the variations in your key variable. We
usually harvest external variables from remote
sensor data sources, including but not limited to
satellite imagery, LiDAR, radars, and Digital
Elevation Models (DEMs). Alternatively, we can
calculate these variables in a conventional office
setting, based on features discernible in terrain
images, topographical maps, morphological maps,
among others. Such resources facilitate the
computation of relevant distances such as
proximity to coastlines or rivers, and more.
It’s crucial to grasp that the external variable needs

to be available at every pixel of the interpolation
grid and precisely at the sample or measurement
site. This condition is key to ensuring the proper
functioning of the interpolation method. Further
into this tutorial, we will explore how to handle the
interpolation grid.
Spatial distribution of data related to the zinc concentration within the defined study
area. The River Meuse borders this area.
Step 2: Data verification
Ensuring the accuracy of your data is a cornerstone

step in any analysis, safeguarding the reliability
and validity of your results. Here are a few
important points to take note of:
a. Consistency Assurance: A thorough check of

your data to rule out any inconsistent or out of
place values is necessary. For example, when
dealing with temperature data, a reading of 273
degrees Celsius would raise a red flag in most

cases.
b. Unit Harmony: It is vital to ensure all your

measurements are harmonized in the same units. If
you are handling distance data and find
measurements in both kilometers and miles, it is
time to convert all the data to a common unit for
easy and effective comparison.
c. Mapping Locations and Measurements: Make

sure that the measurements align perfectly with
their respective locations. If you are working with a
temperature measurement dataset and a
geographical location dataset, each temperature
value must be correctly paired with its
geographical counterpart.
d. Duplicate Scrutiny: Replicated data can throw

your results off track. So, it iss worth scanning for
duplicate observations in your dataset and
strategizing how best to manage them.
e. Outlier Evaluation: Outliers, the values in your

data that distinctly stand out due to errors or
authentic observations, can notably sway your
results.
Always remember, data verification is not a one off

process, it is an ongoing endeavor that should run
parallel to your entire analysis.
Step 3: Exploratory data analysis (EDA)
When dealing with KED, exploratory data analysis

forms a key part of the process, giving you a
deeper understanding of your data’s structure and

characteristics:
a. Spatial Visualization: Given that you are dealing

with geospatial data, it is crucial to visualize your
data spatially. This could involve mapping out
scatter plots to display the location of your
sampling points and how the values of your target
variable and the external variable are spread
across the area. These spatial insights can help
you spot patterns or zones of interest.
b. Distribution Analysis: It is beneficial to get a

sense of your target variable and the external
variable’s distribution. You might want to construct
histograms and/or boxplots and conduct normality
tests for this purpose. These steps can help you get
a better understanding of the data’s spread and
identify any potential skewness or outliers.
Left: A histogram with the number of samples displayed above each bin. Right: A
combined histogram and box-and-whisker plot, showcasing the mean and median.
c. Data Transformation and Normality: It is a

common assumption in many statistical and
geostatistical methods, such as KED, that data
adheres to a normal distribution. However, reality
often breaks away from this ideal. To pursue
normality in KED, you have got to investigate the
normality of your data first. Histograms, Q-Q plots,

boxplots, or specific statistical tests can
accomplish this.
If your data decides to defy normality, you will have

to step in with transformations. This could be
logarithmic, square root, or perhaps the Box-Cox
transformation. After reshaping the data, take a
moment to check back on its normality. When you
are ready, employ your transformed data in the KED
process. However, do not forget that to make sense
of the final result or maps, you might need to
backtrack and undo the transformation you
applied earlier.
Left: Histogram of the transformed data, with the number of samples specified above
each bin. Right: Combined histogram and box plot for the transformed data, displaying
the mean and median.
d. Trend Analysis: KED operates under the

assumption that there is a drift function influencing
the variation in the primary variable. As such, it is
crucial to perform a trend analysis to unearth any
hidden patterns in your data, which might involve
creating trend graphs. Furthermore, since an
external variable is used to help explain part of the
variation in the primary variable, it is vital to
understand the interplay between the two.
For this purpose, you can create scatter plots and

perform correlation analysis, while regression
analysis can be saved for a detailed exploration of
the drift function. The fact that the primary and
external variables are located in the same place
significantly simplifies this type of analysis.
Scatter plots are displayed at the top. These graphs depict the relationship between the
primary and the external variables, incorporating both transformed and original data
sets. Further down, we present scatter plots adapted to fit polynomial trend models.
The intention here is to pinpoint the model that adheres most closely to the data, a
determination based on their specific transformations.
Regression analysis executed with the QGIS interface.
e. Variogram Analysis: Variographic analysis

serves as a vital instrument for deciphering the
structure of spatial data. Through this method,

various parameters can be obtained, including
range, nugget effect, and partial sill. These
elements are significant for modeling and
predicting spatial values, as they allow for an
understanding of data variability and its spatial
relationship.
For instance, the nugget effect represents the

variability not accounted for by the variogram’s
spatial structure, while the partial sill indicates the
amount of variability that can be explained through
spatial structure. If the partial sill is high, it signifies
a clear spatial structure in the data, which aids in
variogram modeling and carrying out KED.
After constructing the variogram, the next step

involves selecting the model that best fits the data.
The variogram model is a mathematical function
describing the spatial correlation structure of the
data. This structure is perfectly quantified with the
values of the range, partial sill, and the nugget
effect.
Choosing the appropriate variogram model is

critical for accurate results in kriging with external
drift. There are various variogram models available,
each with their own merits and shortcomings. Some
of the more common variogram models include the
spherical model, the exponential model, and the
Gaussian model.
Selecting the variogram model is no small task.

This decision is based on the distribution of the
variogram data and the selection of a suitable
model. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct a
careful analysis in order to make a sound selection
of the variogram model. In the end, it is advisable
https://giscourse.online/kriging-external-drift-the-most-powerful-guide/?fbclid=IwAR3AB0GZ7AoPRfEnVYz_v2mFyty5F4aCkoJtW2otePDose2jx… 10/24
to test several variogram models to determine the

most suitable one for the available data.
Analysis of the variogram and adjustment of the spherical model, implementation with
RStudio.
Step 4: Creating the interpolation grid
The interpolation grid constitutes a network of

points sprawled across the geographic landscape.
Here, I will detail the fundamental steps for its
construction:
a. Define the geographic extent: The initial stride

towards developing an interpolation grid involves
outlining the geographic boundaries of your study
area. This demarcated extent must encompass all
the locations you aim to estimate.
b. Determining the Grid Resolution: The grid

resolution pertains to the size of each individual
cell or pixel within the grid. The smaller the cell size,
the greater the resolution of your grid, thereby
refining your interpolation. However, it is crucial to
note that a finer resolution demands increased
computational time and storage space. Typically,
the grid resolution is dictated by the minimum
distance between samples of the primary variable.
Nevertheless, in this instance, it could also be
conditioned by the pixel dimensions of the raster

pertaining to the external variable.
c. Constructing the Grid: Once you have

established the extent and resolution, you can
proceed to build the grid. This involves generating
a matrix of points that blanket your entire
geographic extent at the specified resolution.
Data matrix associated to the interpolation grid.
d. Allocating External Variable Values to the Grid:

This is an integral and critical element of KED,
which truly distinguishes it from any other kind of
interpolation grid. Your task is to assign a value
from your external variable to each point in your
interpolation grid. You can accomplish this by
utilizing data obtained from remote sensors, DEM,
topographic maps, or other geospatial data
resources.
Calculation of the external variable in the data matrix. In this case, the external variable
is the minimum distance to the river.
We visualize the distance to the river through a final raster and represent it with red
dots from the original dataset.
Step 5: Interpolation using Kriging with External

Drift
Ultimately, Kriging with External Drift constitutes the

synthesis of a stochastic and a deterministic
model. The KED method cohesively merges these
two models, a capability afforded by information
procured in previous steps, such as the selection of
the external drift and the semivariogram model. We
can use the resulting interpolation to create
contour maps and surfaces representing spatial
data distribution. Such data could be instrumental
for decision-making processes in environmental
projects, and other related disciplines.
The precision of the interpolation is strongly

contingent upon the quality of the data used.
Furthermore, the choice of the external drift and
semivariogram model is critical. It is thus essential
to thoughtfully consider both these elements in
order to achieve an accurate interpolation. Cross-
validation must be employed to ensure the
trustworthiness of the outcomes. Furthermore, it is
important to explore the application of other
evaluative mechanisms to strengthen the overall
reliability and robustness of the results.
Final result of the interpolation.
Step 6: Cross validation for kriging with external

drift
Statisticians often use cross-validation to evaluate

a model’s generalizability. In the context of Kriging
with External Drift, we can use this technique to
validate the interpolation’s accuracy and
robustness.
Here, I present a basic scheme for implementing K-

Fold cross-validation in KED. However, it is relevant
to mention other techniques. A popular example is
Leave-One-Out Cross-Validation (LOOCV):
We divide the dataset into subsets, typically

using 5 or 10 subsets. These subsets should be
representative of the original dataset.
For each subset, fit the KED model using the
remaining data. That is, all data except those of
the current subset.
Utilize the fitted model to predict values in the

current subset. We didn’t use these data in fitting
the model.
Compare the predictions with actual values and
record some measure of error (for instance, mean
squared error).
Repeat steps 2-4 for each subset.
Calculate an average of the recorded error
measures. This will provide an estimate of how
well the KED model will perform with new data.
Remember that, generally, it is desirable to have an

adequate number of samples to carry out solid
validation. If the sample size is exceedingly small,
the uncertainty in the estimation might be high. In
such a case, it’s crucial to consider other sources of
information. Auxiliary data or insights from an
expert in the area can enhance the quality of
predictions.
Practical example with QGIS and R, based

on Kriging with External Drift.
We are excited to present an engaging, two-part

tutorial that unfolds a hands-on exercise on KED.
This tutorial will guide you through the intricate
process of interpolation, step by step. The focus will
be on estimating zinc concentration for the
identification of contaminated soils.
Through this tutorial, the mentor will walk you

through each phase of the interpolation process. It
covers everything from data entry and exploration
to the application of KED. The tutorial culminates
with a detailed interpretation of the results,
allowing you to glean the maximum value from

each stage of the exercise.
We have designed this tutorial to be intuitive and

accessible. Indeed, it caters to individuals with
foundational knowledge of GIS and R. Clear
explanations and visual illustrations facilitate an
understanding of all concepts.
Upon completion of this tutorial, you will have

gained valuable hands-on experience in using
Kriging with External Drift. Moreover, you’ll be
equipped with the necessary skills to apply this
method in your own projects. You can apply the
knowledge acquired here across a variety of fields,
such as geology and environmental sciences.
Our ultimate goal is for you to acquire solid

competencies in spatial data analysis, utilizing a
variety of tools. In this way, you will be able to
confront real-world challenges and make
significant contributions in your field of study or
work. You are just a click away from embarking on
this exciting journey into the world of Kriging with
External Drift!
Kriging With External Drift. #1 Introduction and Grid.
Kriging with External Drift. #2 Data Analysis and Interpolation.
Fourth lesson of the fourth Geostatistics course: Kriging/Cokriging interpolation and

mapping, taught at https://giscourse.online/
Become an expert in geostatistics today!
If you are on a mission to enhance your

geostatistical analysis skills, look no further! This
Geostatistics Course on Kriging/Cokriging
Interpolation and Mapping will immerse you in the
diverse world of Kriging types, thereby streamlining
your spatial data analysis and professional map
creation. With real-world examples and hands-on
exercises using R integrated into QGIS, this course
undeniably stands as the prime choice for those
aspiring to elevate their geostatistical analysis
prowess. Do not hesitate, seize this opportunity now
and kickstart your learning journey today!
Join the course now
5 Advantages of kriging with External Drift
Kriging with External Drift (KED) stands as a robust

and adaptable geostatistical method for the
interpolation of spatial data. Below, I showcase five
key advantages of employing KED:
a. Integration of Additional Information: Unlike

ordinary Kriging, KED allows for the integration of
additional information in the form of an external
variable. This can help enhance the accuracy of
interpolation, particularly when the external
variable is strongly correlated with the variable of
interest.
b. Management of Spatial Trends: KED can

proficiently manage spatial trends in data, which
proves especially useful in scenarios where data
exhibit systematic change in a specific direction.
The model incorporates the drift function to
achieve this.
c. Estimation of Uncertainty: Much like other

Kriging methods, KED provides not only an
estimation of values at unsampled locations, but
also a measure of the uncertainty associated with
these estimations. This can be invaluable for risk-
based decision making.
d. Optimized Interpolation: KED, akin to other

Kriging methods, utilizes optimal estimation theory.
This implies that, under certain assumptions, KED
estimates are statistically the best possible.
e. Flexibility: KED is flexible in terms of the form of

the drift function that can be used. This can be a
linear function of spatial coordinates, a function of
external variables, or a combination of both. This
allows for the adaptation of the model to the
specific structure of your data.
5 Disadvantages of kriging with External

Drift:
Kriging with External Drift carries many advantages.

However, it is essential to consider its limitations
when employing this method. Here, we list five of
them:
a. Statistical Assumptions: KED, like other Kriging

methods, makes certain assumptions about the
data, including stationarity and normality. If our
data do not meet these assumptions, we risk
obtaining biased or inaccurate KED estimates.
b. Selection of the External Variable: Choosing the

external variable in KED can be challenging. If the
external variable does not correlate well with the
variable of interest, its inclusion might not
enhance, and could even degrade, the precision of

the interpolation.
c. Computational Complexity: KED can be

computationally intensive, particularly for large
data sets and high-resolution interpolation grids.
This can make KED less practical for real-time
applications or for very large datasets.
d. Need for an Interpolation Grid: KED requires the

creation of an interpolation grid with values of the
external variable for each grid point. This can be a
challenge if data for the external variable is not
available across the full extent of the grid.
e. Difficulty of Interpretation: Although KED can

provide more accurate estimates than other
interpolation methods, interpreting the results can
be more challenging. This is due to the inclusion of
the external variable and the complexity of the KED
model itself.
Despite its drawbacks, KED is valuable for

interpolating spatial data. Its effectiveness relies
on its appropriate usage and understanding of its
limitations.
The Top 5 Most Frequently Asked

Questions About Kriging with External
Drift:
What is “external drift” in KED? The “external drift”

refers to the inclusion of an external variable in the
Kriging model.We use this external variable, which
can be any measurable feature expected to
correlate with the variable of interest, to explain
part of the spatial variation in the data.
How do I choose the external variable in KED? The

choice of the external variable should be based on
your understanding of the system you are studying.
Ideally, the selected variable should have a strong
correlation with the variable of interest and should
be available at all locations for which we want to
make estimates.
Why do I need to check the normality of my data in

KED? It is essential to verify normality in KED
because this method assumes that the residuals
(differences between the observed and the
estimated trend values) follow a normal
distribution. If your data does not comply with this
assumption, you may find your estimates to be
biased or inaccurate. In such a case, you should
consider transforming your data to ensure
normality before applying KED.
How do I handle trends in my data when using

KED? The drift function in KED enables the handling
of trends in the data. By incorporating a drift
function into your model, you can effectively model
the systematic variation in your data that cannot
be explained solely by spatial autocorrelation.
When should I use KED instead of ordinary Kriging?

KED can be useful when you have an external
variable that is strongly correlated with your
variable of interest, or when your data show a
spatial trend that cannot be adequately managed
by ordinary Kriging.
#QGIS, #RStats, #Kriging, #GIS, #SpatialAnalysis, #DataVisualization,

#Geostatistics, #DataScience, #OpenSource, #RemoteSensing.
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6/15/23, 5:47 PM Kriging External Drift: the most powerful guide

Kriging External Drift: the most

Welcome to the fascinating world of Kriging with

Presented to you by the GeoRGB Community, this

Moreover, this technique will enhance your

What is kriging with External Drift?

Kriging with External Drift (KED) is a method

under study. We leverage this correlation to

At the heart of Kriging with External Drift is a key

Picture this, you are on a mission to forecast the

Kriging with External Drift really shines when you

Kriging with External Drift bears a similarity to

Data preparation for Kriging with External

Step 1: Data Collection

Gathering data stands as the initial step towards

a. Pinpointing Samples: You require data from

b. Primary Variable: You will need details about the

c. Drift Variables (External): These represent

It’s crucial to grasp that the external variable needs

Step 2: Data verification

Ensuring the accuracy of your data is a cornerstone

a. Consistency Assurance: A thorough check of

degrees Celsius would raise a red flag in most

b. Unit Harmony: It is vital to ensure all your

c. Mapping Locations and Measurements: Make

d. Duplicate Scrutiny: Replicated data can throw

e. Outlier Evaluation: Outliers, the values in your

Always remember, data verification is not a one off

Step 3: Exploratory data analysis (EDA)

When dealing with KED, exploratory data analysis

deeper understanding of your data’s structure and

a. Spatial Visualization: Given that you are dealing

b. Distribution Analysis: It is beneficial to get a

c. Data Transformation and Normality: It is a

normality of your data first. Histograms, Q-Q plots,

If your data decides to defy normality, you will have

d. Trend Analysis: KED operates under the

For this purpose, you can create scatter plots and

Regression analysis executed with the QGIS interface.

e. Variogram Analysis: Variographic analysis

structure of spatial data. Through this method,

For instance, the nugget effect represents the

After constructing the variogram, the next step

Choosing the appropriate variogram model is

Selecting the variogram model is no small task.

to test several variogram models to determine the

Step 4: Creating the interpolation grid

The interpolation grid constitutes a network of

a. Define the geographic extent: The initial stride

b. Determining the Grid Resolution: The grid

conditioned by the pixel dimensions of the raster

c. Constructing the Grid: Once you have

Data matrix associated to the interpolation grid.

d. Allocating External Variable Values to the Grid:

Step 5: Interpolation using Kriging with External

Ultimately, Kriging with External Drift constitutes the

The precision of the interpolation is strongly

Final result of the interpolation.