Floodplain Determination and Management Case study: Wadi Watir- Sinai

Abstract

Flash floods are typically natural hazards that occur infrequently in short duration with high flow peaks and high velocities in addition to the loss of life. Forecasting flash floods is difficult and there is a shortage of hydrological and meteorological data for the arid and semi-arid zones. So Governments in all countries of the world are paying increasing attention to research into flash floods which are becoming increasingly important, and to improve data collection techniques, warning systems and control measures as well.

Floodplains are the dry land areas located beside rivers and streams that inundated during flood events. Due to its beautiful view and convenient access to water recreation, floodplains are occupied by human activities and this occupation changes the characteristics of the stream cross section which leads to flash floods. Accordingly, Flood inundation mapping is an important tool for stakeholder's to develop scenarios for control and manage the floodplains. For Wadi Watir, there are floodplains at the delta which are determined and many scenarios are suggested for management these areas from inundation.

Wadi Watir is located in South Sinai, Egypt. It is one of the most active wadis in Sinai which is exposed to flash floods every year. It faces a lot of disasters and damages from floods (e.g. those happened