Impacts of the Urmia Lake Drought on Soil Salinity and Degradation Risk: An Integrated Geoinformatics Analysis and Monitoring Approach

Recent improvements in earth observation technologies and Geographical Information System (GIS) based spatial analysis methods require us to examine the efficiency of different data-driven decision rules for soil salinity monitoring degradation mapping. The main objective this study was analyze environmental impacts Lake Urmia drought on risk plains surrounding hyper-saline lake. We monitored lake by applying spatiotemporal indices time-series satellite images (1990–2020) Google Earth Engine environment. also computed ratio validate results determine most efficient techniques. then mapped GIS decision-making methods. Our indicated that is leading formation extensive salt lands, which impact fertility farmlands. land affected has increased from 2.86% 1990 16.68% 2020. combined spectral response index, with a performance 0.95, image processing method assess salinity. map showed 38.45% area high or very degradation, significant threat food production. This presents an integrated geoinformation approach mapping supports future studies comparing as state art. From practical perspective, provide key information decision-makers, authorities, local stakeholders their efforts mitigate sustain production 7.3 million residents.