Flood hazard in Afghanistan is intensified both by natural and socioeconomic factors

Abstract. The increasing frequency of climate-driven extreme events, such as heavy precipitation, floods, and droughts, poses severe social, economic, and environmental challenges. Among these, floods are the most destructive, causing significant damage to lives, property, and infrastructure. This study assesses flood risk in Afghanistan using remote sensing and geographic information systems to evaluate flood hazards and vulnerabilities at sub-basin and provincial levels. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identifies key environmental, climatic, and social indicators influencing flood risk, while the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) systematically ranks these indicators to ensure logical consistency and reduce bias in decision-making. Findings indicate that Afghanistan’s eastern and northeastern regions, particularly within the Amu and Kabul River basins, face the highest flood hazards due to precipitation, topography, and drainage characteristics that accelerate runoff. Vulnerability analysis highlights that densely populated rural areas in the northern and eastern regions are at greater risk, exacerbated by significant land use changes. This study provides critical insights for policymakers, identifying high-risk areas and supporting targeted resource allocation and mitigation strategies. The findings aim to enhance community preparedness and resilience against future flood risks.