Flood Susceptibility Mapping by Integrating GIS‐Based Approach and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP): Wolaita Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Flooding is among the most devastating natural catastrophes affecting human life and property. Climate change and environmental degradation have exacerbated flooding disasters. Developing countries experience greater damage from flooding due to their low resilience, limited financial resources, weak early warning systems, and technological limitations. Accurate data, prediction, delineation of vulnerable areas, and formulation of local action plans can help minimize the extent of economic losses and fatalities due to flooding. In the current study area, limited data are available to lessen flood potential risks. Remote sensing and GIS approaches were adopted for mapping potential flood‐susceptible areas. Topographical, hydrological, and spectral indices conditioning factors were integrated, and a weighted overlay analysis was performed in ArcGIS. The results revealed that about 8.73%, 77.16%, and 14.08% of the study region are categorized as susceptible, moderately susceptible, and less susceptible to flooding, respectively. The findings would help government authorities and relevant bodies in developing early warning systems, advancing technology, creating local action plans, and formulating flood hazard mitigation and adaptation strategies.