Flood influence using GIS and remote sensing based morphometric parameters: A case study in Niger delta region

Abstract

This study delineates morphometric parameters for determining flood influence on river catchments in the Niger Delta Region using geospatial techniques. Data from the United States Geological Survey; Shuttle radar topographic mission was processed using ArcGIS 10.6 software. The results of the hydrological data analysis, compound factors, and weighted overlay approach demonstrate that early peak flows from the River Niger cause flooding along the riverbanks, as evidenced by the stream frequency findings. The Ikoli River's catchments consistently provide the River Niger with its peak discharge for a considerable time. The Orashi, Bomadi, Forcados, Nun, and Ikoli River basins all have a low relief ratio and hence little impact on floods. However, catchments with a higher relief ratio contribute more water in a shorter amount of time and produce floods in lower locations. Because of its high runoff parameters and short concentration time, the Orashi River catchment is the most flood-prone, followed by the Niger and Forcardos River catchments, which indicate "high," and the Ikoli, Nun, and Bomadi River catchments, which indicate "medium." It is therefore advised that the Orashi, Niger, and Forcados river catchments be prioritized in order to reduce the impact of floods in the Niger Delta research region.