Comprehensive evaluation of groundwater quality and drought susceptibility in Jazmurian Basin Iran using integrated statistical GIS analysis

Arid regions face a dual threat of declining groundwater quantity and quality. This study examines these interconnected challenges in the diverse aquifers of Iran's Jazmurian Basin using GIS and statistics. The study reveals significant spatial variations in salinity, hardness, and sodium content. Of particular concern is the rising electrical conductivity (EC) across most aquifers, especially in the east, which indicates potential water quality degradation. The relationship between groundwater level and salinity is intricate and requires site-specific management. Cluster analysis has identified three distinct groundwater profiles: deep formations that require geological understanding for salinity control, high-quality zones that need recharge protection, and areas that struggle with salinity sources that require identification. Factor analysis identifies salinity and aridity, mineral content related to rock weathering and agriculture, recharge zones requiring protection, and complex interactions between specific ions and groundwater level as key drivers. This study highlights the importance of implementing comprehensive management strategies considering spatial variations, temporal trends, and unique drivers. Targeted interventions, sustainable water use, and effective monitoring programs are essential for safeguarding this vital resource in drought-prone regions. Further research is necessary to refine our understanding of human influences and unique geochemical processes shaping each aquifer system, ultimately enhancing global arid zone groundwater management.