Affiliation:
1. Abdullah Alrushaid Chair for Earth Science Remote Sensing Research, Geology and Geophysics Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
2. Department of Geology and Geophysics, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
Abstract
To detect groundwater-bearing potential zones in Wadi Fatimah, western Saudi Arabia, geophysical data from three profiles of two-dimensional electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and remote sensing data were gathered, integrated, and evaluated. The DEM and slope maps indicate that Wadi Fatimah has a high potential to store great amounts of groundwater. The maximum elevations range from 0 to 933 m, with an average elevation of 466 m AMSL. The amount of surface water that infiltrates into the ground is affected by the slope. Rainwater can be collected in low-sloped areas and percolate into the subsurface, replenishing groundwater. In the study area, the slope ranged from 0° to 38°. The slopes of Wadi Fatimah ranged from 0° to 9.1°, with highlands having slopes ranging from 9.1° to 38°. Wadi Fatimah has a high stream density. Furthermore, because it is unconfined, the groundwater-bearing zone reaches the ground surface and recharges continuously during the rainy season. The drainage density is 0.433 km/km2, which is considered normal for coarse drainage. Lithology, infiltration capacity, and topographic relief all have an impact on drainage texture. Because of the basement rocks’ low slope, a coarse drainage texture of 0.059 was calculated, indicating additional groundwater recharge from precipitation. Moreover, based on the 2D inversion results of the ERT data, Wadi Fatimah’s unconfined aquifer has a high potential for groundwater. This aquifer is distinguished by a zone of low resistivity (less than 100 Ω.m) and a depth of up to 50 m below the ground surface. This aquifer is underlain by the weathered/fractured and/or fresh basement rocks. Wadi Fatimah basin is recharged by rainfall creating a promising or strategic area for groundwater supply for future planning and urbanization projects in surrounding areas.
Funder
The Deputyship for Research and Innovation, “Ministry of Education”
Subject
Water Science and Technology,Aquatic Science,Geography, Planning and Development,Biochemistry
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