Flood Susceptibility Modeling: A Geo-spatial Technology Multi-criteria Decision Analysis Approach

Abstract

Understanding the surface and subsurface condition can immensely enhance the availability of accurate flood susceptibility maps for effective management of flood catastrophe. In this study, remote sensing and Geographic Information System-based (GIS-based) Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) based on experts’ opinions has been adopted to carry out the preparedness phase of flood management. Establishing a link between the surface/subsurface conditions and flood occurrence is the major objective of this study. The surface/subsurface investigations showed that the lowland areas of the study area are characterized by the presence of flat slope, alluvium deposits and low humid clay soil composition. The GIS-based Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model was adopted in simulating the flood susceptible zones map of the study area. Finally, the result revealed that flood generation in the area immensely relied on slope, geology and soil type along with rainfall as the key catalyst.