The application of GIS in mapping of flood hazard areas and assessing of risk in kumasi, Ghana

Abstract

Flooding is one of the most dangerous natural hazards which causes economic losses and death globally. In the last three decades, there has been a rise in flooding events globally. Furthermore, it has been projected that the occurrence of flooding is expected to rise due to urbanization, haphazard development, rise in precipitation and deforestation. Floods in Kumasi have become a perennial phenomenon. This has caused significant damages to properties and financial losses. The research utilized a geographic information system through a modelling approach to map flood hazard and assess risk in Kumasi. The results reveal that in the study, 53% of the entire area was found to be highly susceptible to flooding. In addition, 35% of the population are at high risk of flooding. The high-risk zone was found to cover the north – western and the city centre. Also, the city centre was identified to be highly prone to flooding and also floods are likely to occur in the rainy season. Moreover, Bantama and Subin were identified to be at more risk of flooding as compared to the other sub-metros. The results from the flood hazard map and the risk map suggest flooding in Kumasi is of critical concern and thus flood management strategies need to be implemented.