Using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) for flood susceptibility mapping of Mersin, Turkey

Abstract

Overflowing and flood disasters caused by excess water in the river beds cause a major problem. Increasing precipitation, along with the growth of cities, destruction of river beds, inadequate infrastructure and climate change, triggers overflowing and flood disasters. Overflowing and flooding on settlements can cause great damage and destruction. Flood maps, which are necessary to prevent these material and moral damages, determine the regions to be affected by the flood in advance and play an auxiliary role in the measures that can be taken there. Remote sensing and geographic information systems play a major role in obtaining and processing this information. Due to size and complexity of data obtained from field, GIS makes it easier for us to process data. And allows us to observe results much clear. In this study, Analytical Hierarchy Process used for flood susceptibility mapping of Mersin. 10 factors affecting flood have been used to prepare susceptibility map. Results showed us that coastal zone and close locations to river beds are under risk of flood. Since most of the built-up area located on or around these risk zones, it is required to take measures immediately.