Using remote sensing techniques to delineate SDS “hotspot” source regions

Operational remote sensing (ORS) is an effective tool for hazard zonation of the dust source areas for remediation and vegetation purposes. Various ORS satellite monitoring techniques, including NASA MODIS Aqua/Terra, Landsat and ESA Sentinel, were used to delineate a major sand and dust storm (SDS) “hotspot” area in the Mesopotamia region of southern Iraq. SDS blown from this “hotspot” area is transboundary and travels thousands of kilometres from the source affecting multi-countries, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar. We applied various ORS datasets to clearly delineate the “hotspot” area with high temporal and spatial resolution. The techniques used include: (1) surface composition analysis and mapping, (2) vegetation mapping, (3) topographic and soil moisture, (4) aerosol optical depth (AOD), and (5) temporal monitoring and trend analysis. ORS identified severe wind erosion located in the top center (hotspot 1) and southwest (hotspot 2) regions of the “hotspot” area. By leveraging these ORS techniques scientists can properly assess and understand the soil structure of areas prone to SDS, delineating factors contributing to soil erosion and SDS generation. This understanding is fundamental for implementing effective land management strategies, conservation efforts, and early warning systems aimed at mitigating the impacts of SDS on both local and transboundary scales.