Using Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing to Study the Natural Characteristics of the Wadi Amara Basin

Abstract

This study aimed to demonstrate the importance of employing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing technologies in identifying the natural characteristics of the Wadi Amara Basin through the use of a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) with a spatial resolution of 30 m. Particular emphasis was placed on the basin’s topographic, areal, morphometric, and geomorphological characteristics, as well as drainage density, stream order distribution, and channel networks based on the stream-order classification system proposed by Arthur N. Strahler (1969). The study sought to establish a digital geographic database, produce thematic maps of the basin’s natural features, derive various morphometric parameters, and analyze them using a quantitative analytical approach. The findings revealed that the Wadi Amara Basin covers an area of 34.13 km², with a basin length of 7.5 km and a perimeter of approximately 27.5 km. The basin exhibits a near-circular yet irregular shape. Its terrain extends across three distinct geomorphological zones, with elevations ranging from 2 to 171 m above sea level. Slope gradients vary between 0° and 13.6°, with an average slope of 2.7°, according to the classification of Anthony Young (1972). The drainage network consists of four stream orders of varying lengths and frequencies, comprising 99 channels with a total stream length of 56.22 km. The study further indicates that the basin is currently in the youthful stage of geomorphological development, characterized by a ruggedness value of 9.8 km. Moreover, the basin exhibits highly dissected terrain and a coarse drainage texture, with a value of 3.6 streams/km according to the classification proposed by Kenneth G. Smith (1950). The study concludes with a set of findings and recommendations that may contribute to future research and applications related to the management and sustainable development of natural resources.