Stratigraphic Contributions to Hydrological Flow: A GIS-Based Analysis of Elevation and Flow Patterns in Udi, Ezeagu, and Ojir River Local Government Areas, Enugu

Charity Nkiru Nwokeabia 1, *, Benard Ifeanyi Odoh 1 and Chukwuneke Jude Chetanna 2

1 Department of Geophysics, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria.
2 Department of Civil Engineering, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli, Nigeria.
 
Research Article
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 13(01), 614–626.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.13.1.1656

 

Publication history: 
Received on 20 July 2024; revised on 05 September 2024; accepted on 07 September 2024
 
Abstract: 
Understanding the elevation and flow dynamics of a region is critical for effective watershed management, especially in areas with diverse topographical features. The Udi, Ezeagu, and Ojir River Local Government Areas in Enugu, Nigeria, exhibit a complex elevation gradient, influencing both geological and hydrological processes. This study aims to analyze the elevation and flow direction within these regions to assess their impact on flood risk, erosion, and watershed management. We conducted a spatial analysis using Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) to map elevation, flow direction, and basin order. The data were processed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to visualize and interpret the topographical and hydrological characteristics of the study area. The analysis revealed significant variation in elevation, ranging from 15 to 597 meters above sea level. The flow direction analysis indicated diverse pathways influenced by the topography, with distinct patterns in Udi, Ezeagu, and Ojir River areas. Low elevation zones are prone to flooding due to flat terrain and slow water movement, whereas higher elevations in Udi Hills show rapid runoff, increasing erosion risks. The flow direction analysis highlights the influence of underlying geological structures on water movement. The study emphasizes the importance of elevation data in watershed management, highlighting areas vulnerable to flooding and erosion. This research provides a comprehensive spatial understanding of how elevation and flow direction influence hydrological processes, contributing to more effective watershed management strategies in Enugu.
 
Keywords: 
Basin order; Stream network; Surface runoff; Terrain analysis; Watershed management
 
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