Spatial analysis of flood susceptibility in the Muriaé 2 Sub-Basin, Campos dos Goytacazes (RJ)

Abstract

Vegetation removal and waterproofing of large areas due to the urbanization process directly affects the natural hydrological cycle and can contribute to events such as floods and floods. To this end, the Geographic Information System (GIS) allows the determination of areas at risk of flooding. Based on the issues addressed, this study aimed to map the areas most susceptible to flooding in the Muriaé Sub-Basin 2, and to propose intervention measures. The methodology employed consisted of determining the compactness coefficient, circularity index and sub-basin shape factor. In addition, the sub-basin was delimited, the Topographic Moisture Index (TWI) was determined and the Land Use and Occupation were determined using QGIS algorithms. The results indicated a high susceptibility to flooding in the locality areas, which can be explained by the predominance of flat relief areas used as the Muriaé River floodplain. The Map of Land Use and Occupation showed that the sub-basin suffered many anthropic interference and showed the predominance of cultivated areas. Measures such as flood warning and forecasting systems, erosion control programs along the drainage basin, environmental education focused on the importance of vegetation in the sub-basin and erosion control and the construction of small walls around the river could be taken to minimize the effects of flooding in these locations. It can be concluded that the use of GIS is very useful for conducting hydrological research.