Mapping flood risks across the Thiès City catchment area using the flood potential index (Senegal)

This study aims to assess flood potential in urban areas of Thiès in Senegal using the flood potential index (FPI), a multi-criteria method integrated into a geographic information system (GIS). This approach makes it possible to map vulnerable areas and identify contributing factors such as topography, precipitation, urbanization, and drainage infrastructure.

The results show that certain areas of Thiès, particularly low-lying areas close to drainage networks, are particularly exposed to flood risks. Factors such as poor drainage infrastructure capacity, soil degradation and the lack of strict land use regulations amplify the city’s vulnerability. Over 27% of the area is at moderate to high risk, 19.86% at high risk and 9.66% at very high risk, requiring urgent action. Based on the results, the authors suggest that mitigation strategies, such as improving drainage infrastructure, rehabilitating soils and integrating green spaces, are necessary to reduce the impact of flooding in Thiès.