Development of Hazard Atlas from Flood Inundation Patterns in Makurdi Local Government Area of Nigeria

Abstract

Flooding is a recurrent environmental and socio-economic challenge in Makurdi, Nigeria, driven by a combination of climatic variability, topography, drainage constraints, land-use change, and urban expansion. This study presents a comprehensive assessment of flood risk in Makurdi over the period 1984 – 2024 using a GIS-based approach. The assessment integrates flood inundation to develop a hazard atlas for the region High-resolution Digital Elevation Models and river discharge records were used to quantify spatial and temporal patterns of flood exposure. The Flood Hazard Atlas identified low-lying settlements along the Benue River, including Wadata, Wurukum, and North Bank, as highly vulnerable. High and very high susceptibility zones cover over 55 % of the Local Government Area. Flood hazard zoning and the Regional Flood Risk Atlas show that approximately 63 % of Makurdi falls under high to very high flood hazard categories, with critical infrastructure and over 75 % of roads located in vulnerable zones. The findings underscore the need for integrated flood management. Recommended measures include improved hydrologic design, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems, enforcement of floodplain regulations, ecosystem restoration, and scenario-based urban planning. This study provides a robust evidence base to support climate-resilient urban planning, disaster preparedness, and sustainable flood risk management in Makurdi and similar riverine cities.