Flood Risk Assessment Using Multi-Criteria Spatial Analysis Case Study: Gilort River between Bălcești and Bolbocești

Abstract

Floods are the most widespread hazard globally and have a significant impact on local communities in terms of material damage and loss of life. Flood risk analysis is a complex process that needs to be addressed both physically and socially. This study provides a method for identifying the risk using Geographical Informational Systems techniques. Each indicator taken into account was analyzed, standardized, and weighted to obtain the final results. The case study was represented by the River Gilort (a tributary to Jiu River) in a hilly area (Getic Subcarpathians) between Bălcești and Bolbocești). In order to achieve reliable results, a series of natural and anthropic factors were used, such as elevation, slopes, geology, riparian vegetation, bank erosion, land use, groundwater depth, population density, vulnerable classes of the population, and density of houses. The flood risk assessment results show the distribution of flood risk in the study area, with a more significant impact on land use and only a few towns in the area presenting a significant flood risk. These results can be used by the competent local authorities to effectively manage flood risk.