GIS-Based Watershed Delineation and Hydrological Characterisation of Borno Watershed, Nigeria
Keywords:
GIS, watershed delineation, flow accumulation, hydrological modelling, Borno State.Abstract
This study examined the delineation and hydrological characterisation of the Borno Watershed, Nigeria, using Geographic Information System (GIS)-based techniques. The study was motivated by increasing incidences of flooding, land degradation, and water resource management challenges within the watershed. Four objectives were pursued: to determine the flow direction characteristics, analyse flow accumulation patterns, evaluate sink-filled elevation characteristics, and delineate the basin extent and hydrological boundaries of the watershed. The study adopted a quantitative spatial analysis design using a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and ArcGIS hydrological tools. Hydrological processes including sink filling, flow direction, flow accumulation, and basin delineation were performed to generate watershed characteristics. Descriptive statistical techniques were employed to analyse the derived hydrological datasets. The results revealed that flow direction values ranged from 1 to 128, indicating eight principal drainage directions within the watershed. Flow accumulation values ranged from 0 to 10,958, demonstrating significant runoff concentration in major drainage channels and identifying potential flood-prone zones. The sink-filled elevation model produced values ranging from -9,999 to 6,125, confirming successful terrain correction and improved hydrological connectivity. Basin delineation further identified distinct hydrological zones with value ranges of 1–32 and 32.00000001–128. The findings showed that GIS-based hydrological modelling effectively characterised watershed behaviour and provided valuable information for flood risk assessment, water resources planning, and environmental management. The study concluded that watershed delineation and hydrological characterisation are critical for sustainable watershed management in Borno State. Consequently, the study recommended the development of flood-control infrastructure, integration of GIS-based monitoring systems, implementation of watershed conservation measures, and utilisation of delineated basin boundaries for sustainable water resources planning.
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