Hydrological Characteristics of the Northern Valley Basins of Lake Haditha

Aims: This study aims to analyze the hydrological behavior of the valleys located north of Lake Haditha, Anbar Governorate. The study also investigated the impact of natural factors such as topography, discharge volume, and flow velocity on flood risk. It also aimed to provide an accurate information base that will contribute to improving water resource management and developing strategies to reduce flood risk. Methodology: A regional and analytical approach was adopted to investigate the hydrological phenomena and analyze the impact of environmental factors on surface runoff. Satellite imagery and a digital elevation model (DEM) were used to measure water basin characteristics such as waterway length, slopes, and valley depths. A deductive approach was also used to examine relationships between variables and analyze their impact on water discharge. Results: Following an extensive analysis, the study showed significant differences in discharge volume between basins. Al-Fayda Valley recorded the highest discharge (197.14 m³/s), making it the most vulnerable to flooding, while Al-Ab Valley recorded the lowest discharge (33.94 m³/s). The results also revealed that Wadi Al-Takaka has a longer drainage time (1.04 hours), reflecting slow water flow, while Wadi Al-Ab had the shortest time (0.57 hours). Furthermore, the highest flow velocity was recorded in Wadi Al-Ab (0.27 km/h), and the lowest in Wadi Al-Takaka (0.18 km/h), with a total flow volume of 65.28 thousand m³. Conclusions: The study confirmed an inverse relationship between flow velocity and basin length, as differences in discharge and flow velocity lead to varying flood risks between valleys. Based on these results, the study recommends the development of early warning systems, improvement of flood channel infrastructure, and implementation of water harvesting projects to enhance the sustainability of water resources and reduce flood risks in the region.