Assessment and monitoring of wind erosion risks as a determinant of desertification: Kirkuk as a case study in semi-arid regions

Abstract

           This study aims to identify the climatic and environmental characteristics affecting the intensity of wind erosion, revealing their spatial and temporal variations. It also measures the degree of climatic susceptibility to erosion using the Chepil equation and utilizes remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) techniques to monitor environmental change and identify high-risk areas. The study employs a descriptive and analytical approach, relying on climatic data, satellite imagery, thematic maps, and digital processing within a GIS environment.

The results show that Kirkuk Governorate lies within a semi-arid climatic zone characterized by high temperatures, fluctuating rainfall, low relative humidity, and high levels of solar radiation. These factors collectively contribute to increased soil susceptibility to disintegration and erosion. The study also indicates that climatic susceptibility to wind erosion increases during the summer months, particularly in the most exposed areas with the least vegetation cover. This variability is directly related to wind speed, effective precipitation, and land surface characteristics. The results of the land cover and vegetation analysis revealed that the governorate experienced an expansion of barren areas during the study period, coupled with a decline in medium and high-density vegetation cover and an increase in sparsely vegetated areas. This reflects a growing state of environmental fragility, which has contributed to increased wind erosion and accelerated desertification indicators.