Using the Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) Approach to Identify Spatial Variations of Geomorphological Hazards in Qaradagh District

Abstract

This study falls within the field of geomorphology and employs the Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approach to identify the spatial variations of geomorphological hazards in Qaradagh District. Qaradagh District is located at the end of the southeastern part of mountainous region in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and administratively belongs to Sulaymaniyah Governorate, with an area of (708.55) km². The main objective of this research is to determine the spatial variations in geomorphological hazards within Qaradagh District and to identify the most influential factors contributing to these variations. The study aims to delineate the areas most prone to geomorphological hazards that threaten the inhabitants of the study area and their activities. The study relies on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model, which is considered one of the most effective methods within the MCDM framework. Additionally, the research incorporates several programs, techniques, and datasets, including Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data and a number of base maps. The maps of the study were produced using Arc Map GIS software, while Remote Sensing techniques and Landsat satellite imagery were used to extract maps of lineaments and vegetation cover. Furthermore, climatic data from nearby meteorological stations were utilized to determine the climatic characteristics of the study area. The results indicate that approximately 4% of the study area has no geomorphological hazard and is completely suitable for human activities. In contrast, the areas classified as hazardous and highly hazardous constitute about 21.61% and 9.59% of the total area, respectively, and are entirely unsuitable for human activities — particularly those within the highly hazardous zones.