Analysis of Morphometric Hazards in the Volgian Valley Basin Sulaymaniyah

Abstract

       This research investigates and analyzes the morphometric characteristics of the Wadi Volgaian basin، aiming to understand the basin's geomorphological evolution and identify its associated natural hazards. The study employs a quantitative analytical approach، utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques and Digital Elevation Models (DEM). Twenty morphometric variables were measured and classified، covering areal، linear، shape، relief، and drainage network aspects.The results indicate that the total area of the basin is 84.2 km²، consisting of six stream orders with dendritic and parallel drainage patterns. Regarding shape characteristics، the study revealed that the basin takes an elongated-oval shape with an elongation ratio of (0.48)، suggesting that it is still in the "youthful" geomorphological stage، dominated by active vertical erosion. Furthermore، hypsometric analysis confirmed that the basin has reached advanced stages of erosion with an integral value of (0.13)، reflecting the magnitude of the denudation processes it has undergone over time.The study concludes that the area suffers from active geomorphological hazards، most notably high relief roughness (2.55) and a "very fine texture" of the drainage network. These factors lead to rapid surface runoff and an increased probability of flash floods and soil erosion، particularly given the sparse vegetation cover. The research recommends implementing preventive measures to manage these risks and protect the lower parts of the basin from hydrological and sedimentary threats.