In the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a critical study is shedding new light on the dynamics of flood events and their profound impacts on the energy sector and agricultural landscapes. Led by Sabljić Luka from the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at the University of Banja Luka, this research employs advanced remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze flood patterns in the Ukrina River Basin over a four-year period (2016–2019). The findings, published in the journal ‘Open Geosciences’ (which translates to ‘Open Earth Sciences’), offer valuable insights for flood risk management and sustainable land use planning.
The study leverages satellite-derived precipitation data, hydrological data, and Sentinel-1 imagery processed through Google Earth Engine to identify spatial and temporal patterns of floods. By integrating these data sources, the researchers were able to pinpoint specific flood events and their impacts on different land uses. “The combination of temporal analysis with spatial overlays of land use and administrative boundaries allowed us to assess the affected areas comprehensively,” explains Sabljić Luka.
The research identified significant flood events in January 2016, March 2017, March 2018, and May 2019, each coinciding with periods of above-average precipitation and elevated water levels. These events had substantial commercial impacts, particularly on agricultural land, which was the most affected category. For instance, in 2019, 184.90 hectares of agricultural land were flooded, posing serious risks to food security and economic stability. Built-up areas, including critical infrastructure, were also significantly impacted, highlighting the need for robust flood risk management strategies.
The cities and municipalities of Derventa, Prnjavor, and Stanari were identified as the most frequently affected by floods during the study period. These findings underscore the role of cumulative precipitation and hydrological conditions in triggering flood events. “Our analysis provides a foundation for adaptive strategies, early warning systems, and sustainable land use planning,” notes Sabljić Luka.
The implications of this research extend beyond Bosnia and Herzegovina, offering a model for other regions grappling with similar challenges. By integrating remote sensing and GIS technologies, the study demonstrates how data-driven approaches can enhance flood risk management and mitigate the impacts of natural disasters. As climate change continues to exacerbate flood risks, the insights from this research will be invaluable for policymakers, urban planners, and the energy sector, which often faces significant disruptions due to flood events.
In the broader context, this study highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the use of advanced technologies in addressing complex environmental challenges. As Sabljić Luka aptly puts it, “Understanding the spatial and temporal dynamics of floods is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies and ensuring the resilience of our communities and economies.”
The research published in ‘Open Geosciences’ not only advances our scientific understanding of flood events but also paves the way for innovative solutions that can protect vulnerable landscapes and critical infrastructure. As we look to the future, the integration of remote sensing and GIS technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping flood risk management strategies and ensuring a more sustainable and resilient world.