Assessment of Wind Erosion Risk in Al-Salman Depression Using Spectral Indices and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Abstract

This study aims to assess the risk of wind erosion in the Al-Salman Depression, southern Iraq, using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS). The analysis relied on spectral indices (NDVI, BSI) and geomorphological factors (soil type, slope, wind speed, vegetation cover). Results revealed that the Dammam Formation occupies 51.56% of the area, serving as a vital groundwater reservoir that supports vegetation growth and reduces erosion. Climatic data analysis indicated high wind erosion potential due to low rainfall, high evaporation, low humidity, and increased wind speeds. According to the Chepil Equation, the depression was classified within the very high wind erosion risk category. Out of 15 soil samples, 11 fell within the medium to high erodibility classes, based on the Soil Wind Erodibility Index. Furthermore, 70.49% of the area is bare soil (BSI), making it highly susceptible to wind erosion, while 93.20% of the region recorded very low NDVI values, reflecting vegetation scarcity and increased vulnerability. The predominance of very low slopes further enhances soil exposure. Finally, the developed Wind Erosion Risk Index (WERI) showed that 40.09% of the study area falls within medium to high-risk classes.