I'd like to characterize the intensity of hot and dry periods that last days to weeks. I gather that the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) characterizes the intensity of drought over varying timescales, but is typically used on a monthly basis. My understanding of how SPEI is calculated suggests that it could be applied to short timescales as well, but I'd appreciate an expert opinion on this. Also, are there examples in which it has been used in this way?