Morphometric analysis of low mountains for mapping flash flood susceptibility in headwaters

Abstract

Morphometric indices from high-resolution DEMs can contribute to the estimation of flash flood susceptibility in mountainous areas. We have screened 25 morphometric indices commonly used in literature, and based on a correlation matrix, selected those which showed the strongest relationship with flash flood generation: area (A), drainage texture (Rt), drainage density (Dd), elongation ratio (Re), form factor (Ff), lemniscate method (k), Gravelius coefficient (GC), forested area (Fa) and relief ratio (Rr). Among them Dd, Rt and Rr had a direct impact on flash flood generation, while A, Re, Fa, Ff, k and GC are in inverse relationship with the intensity of flash floods. Our summary map shows the prioritization of the watersheds on a scale of 0 to 9. The flash flood susceptibility ranking was empirically verified using hydrological data (20-year water regime obtained from 14 official stream gauges). Our conclusions only partially agree with former observations which may be explained by the particular lithology and morphology of the Mecsek Mountains. Since the lower sections of the watersheds are urbanized, for optimal watershed management more detailed GIS analyses of anthropogenic controls on flash flood hazard are needed in the future.