A GIS-based methodology for drought vulnerability modelling: application at the region of el Hodna, central Algeria

Desert covers 80% of the Algerian territory, while the remaining area is covered by Mediterranean forests and arid climate steppe that are characterized by severe vulnerability to different stresses such as drought, especially with the increase of nefarious human impact and the overuse of natural resources. The objective of this study is to analyse and assess drought vulnerability in the area of El Hodna in central Algeria. The methodology was based on the use of GIS tools and multi-criteria analysis (Analytical hierarchy process) to develop a model of vulnerability mapping. The results showed that 35.67% of the study area was very vulnerable, 32.77% in fragile situation, 19.72% are potentially vulnerable, and only 11.83% of the surface is not affected. The drought-vulnerability map provides a basis from which it will be possible to prevent and prepare for a drought response.