Geospatial-Based Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weighted Product Model (WPM) Techniques for Mapping and Assessing Flood Susceptibility in the Wadi Hanifah Drainage Basin, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia

This paper aimed to map areas prone flooding in the Wadi Hanifah drainage basin located Riyadh region, and identify most important factors that contribute through examining influence of ten topographical, hydrological, environmental variables affecting flood occurrence. Remote sensing data from Landsat-8, Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM), other ancillary datasets were used relevant variables. Two weighted overlay techniques used, including: analytical hierarchy process (AHP) product model (WPM). A correlation matrix optimum index factor (OIF) employed relative importance each factor. The two derived susceptibility maps assessed validation by comparing locations historical events zones. results confirmed validity WPM map. also showed nearly 50% study area was dominated “moderate” zone, while about 33% total land classified as a “high” zone. “slope” found be effective variable for occurrence, followed “geology” variable, “distance network” least variable. OIF indicated best combination dictating variability all “geology”, “land use/cover (LULC)”, “soil type”. findings are expected useful understanding effects on spatial variation occurrence improving control, can reapplied regions with similar climatic conditions worldwide.