Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Ph.D student of Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Zah.C, Islamic Azad University, Zahedan, Iran
2
Associate Professor, Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Zah.C, Islamic Azad University, Zahedan, Iran.
Abstract
Flood Zoning is one of the most important tools in flood risk management, as it helps identify high-risk and low-risk areas in terms of flood occurrence. The main objective of this study is flood hazard zoning in the city of Mashhad using Remote Sensing (RS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and network analysis techniques. This research is descriptive-analytical in terms of methodology and applied in terms of purpose. Data collection was conducted through library (documentary) studies, as well as gathering statistical and spatial information, including documents, records, observations, and documentation. The required data for this study were collected using the library research method. The statistical population of this research consists of experts and elites in Mashhad, with 20 individuals selected through purposive sampling. For data analysis, (RS), (GIS), and network analysis techniques were employed. The results of this study indicate that the city of Mashhad faces a serious challenge of flood risk, with over 41% of the city's area (13,400 hectares out of a total of 32,487 hectares) classified as highly unsuitable or unsuitable in terms of flood susceptibility. These areas are primarily at high risk of waterlogging and flooding and require urgent measures such as improving drainage systems, runoff control, and construction management. Approximately 34% of the city (11,054 hectares) is in a moderate condition, which could turn into high-risk zones in the event of heavy rainfall or land-use changes. On the other hand, only 12.75% of Mashhad (4,145 hectares) has sufficient flood resilience, mainly consisting of areas with suitable slopes and high permeability. These findings highlight the necessity for integrated flood management, land-use optimization, and watershed management projects in Mashhad, as urban development without environmental considerations could exacerbate flood risks in this metropolitan area.
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