Title: Application Of Geographic Information System And Remote Sensing For Flood Risk Assessment In Ahoada East/West Lga, Rivers State
Authors: Nwinye-Harrison, Anthony Chikaike, Balogun, Ayomide Olumide
Volume: 9
Issue: 11
Pages: 208-215
Publication Date: 2025/11/28
Abstract:
Floods have a devastating impact, leading to the loss of lives and properties, making them one of the most destructive natural and man-made disasters. Their effects include the destruction of buildings, business losses, and the reduction of arable land for agriculture. To mitigate the severe impacts of flooding, this study was undertaken to identify flood hotspot zones and pinpoint vulnerable communities in Ahoada West and Ahoada East Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Rivers State, Nigeria. The study utilized a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) to identify areas with varying elevations. In Ahoada East, the highest elevation was found to be 38 meters, while the lowest was 2 meters. In Ahoada West, the highest elevation was 36 meters, and the lowest was 1 meter above mean sea level. Flood risk vulnerability was assessed and classified into five categories: very low, low, moderate, high, and very high-risk zones. In Ahoada East, the vulnerability analysis revealed that the Ochiba, Odaga, Obelle, and Osubogo communities were at very low risk, while the Oraputa community was at low risk. The Ogbo community was moderately vulnerable, and the Abessa community was at high risk. No community in Ahoada East was found to be at very high risk. In Ahoada West, communities such as Ubeta, Ukodu, Oyiba, Okarki, Onitu, Ikodu, and Mbiama had very low vulnerability to flooding, while Ubeta and Oshi communities were moderately vulnerable. The study recommends the regular availability of high-resolution DEMs for the accurate delineation of flood-prone areas. Additionally, it advises that areas identified as high-risk flood zones should be avoided for future development.