Flash-Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Management Using Morphometric Analysis and HEC-RAS Simulation: Case study from Ras Bakr and Safaga along the Red Sea Coast of Egypt

Flash floods represent a major hazard in arid coastal environments, where short-duration rainfall events can generate destructive hydrological responses. This study presents an integrated geo-environmental assessment of flash flood hazards in the Ras Bakr and Safaga regions along Egypt’s Red Sea coast. The approach combines remote sensing data, GIS-based morphometric analysis, and hydrological modeling using[ا1.1] HEC-RAS to delineate drainage systems, analyze basin characteristics, and simulate flood behavior. Historical flood events, particularly those recorded in 2016 and 2020, were used to support model validation. The results indicate that several drainage basins, including Wadi Bakr 1 and 2 and Wadi Safaga 1, exhibit high flood susceptibility. Hydraulic simulations reveal potential flood depths exceeding 10–15 m in critical zones, posing serious threats to infrastructure, renewable energy projects, and expanding urban areas. These findings emphasize the need for an integrated flood risk management framework that combines targeted structural measures with non-structural planning and preparedness actions. In addition, the proposed framework supports climate adaptation efforts by enhancing resilience to extreme rainfall events and promoting sustainable land-use planning. The study further demonstrates how geospatial and hydraulic modeling can inform evidence-based decision-making and be transferred to similar arid coastal settings facing increasing flood risks.