Quantifying landscape structure of the kelantan river basin before and after a major flood event using landscape metrics

Abstract

Over the years, flood is one of the natural hazards which occur all over the world and it is critical to be controlled through proper management. Flood in Kelantan is mainly caused by heavy rainfall brought by the Northeast monsoon starting from November to March every year. It is categorized as annual flood as it occurs every year during the Monsoon season. Severe flood events in Kelantan, Malaysia cause damage to both life and property every year and understanding landscape structure changes is very important for planners and decision makers for future land use planning and management. This research aims to quantify the landscape structure near to Kelantan River basin during the flood event using integrated approach of remote sensing (RS), geographic information system (GIS) technique and landscape ecological approach. As a result, this study provide new knowledge on landscape structure that contributes to understand the impact of flood events and provide the best ways to mitigate flooding for helping to protect biodiversity habitat and dwellers. As conclusions, this kind of study will give more benefits to various stakeholders such as Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Department of Environment, state government, fisherman and communities.