Drought vulnerability mapping using AHP and Fuzzy Logic in Iran

In this study, Analytic Hierarchy Process method was used to assess drought vulnerability in different regions of Iran, using five indices including climate, topography, drainage density, land use and groundwater resources. After determining the weight of each index and sub-index, the fuzzy membership maps were calculated using Fuzzy logic functions in ArcGIS software. Then, by use of omega fuzzy operator (γ=0.9) the maps over laps were drawn and classified. Drought vulnerability map of Iran showed that central, Eastern, Southern, North East and South East regions are mainly located in two vulnerability classes of very low and very high. Also, Zagros and Alborz mountains region classified as highly vulnerable. Most areas in north and northwest of the country as well as northern coastal region are located in medium to very low vulnerable classes. Lake Urmia region is mostly occupied by high and medium vulnerability classes.