Estimating flood inundation potential using the curve number method and satellite image processing (case study of the Qizil Uzan River in Iran)

ABSTRACT The research introduces a method of flood hazard measurement using satellite imaging coupled with the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) curve number (CN) method. The research area was selected to be the region around the Qizil Uzan River in northwest Iran, which suffers from intensive rainfall and increased susceptibility to flood. Satellite-derived groundcover data are combined with soil type and slope to calculate spatially distributed CN values that describe the stream production potential throughout the landscape. The calculated CN maps exhibited pronounced spatial variation in flood risk over the study area. Especially, Section 15 has been identified as a high-risk zone with its high CN value, indicating a high flood risk that is aggravated by the closeness of residential developments. Furthermore, locations along the riverbed (Sections 3 and 4) also present high flood risks, highlighting the necessity for an integrated river management plan. The study area overall exhibited a high to moderate risk of flooding, with some areas being very susceptible. The integration of the SCS-CN method and satellite data was found beneficial in evaluating the risk of flood, determining the priority areas for targeted intervention, and providing suggestions on sustainable land-use planning interventions.