A new study by researchers from USC Viterbi School of Engineering and the University of Paris Cité has revealed that soil erosion caused by desertification is intensifying the impact of floods in coastal areas of North Africa and the Middle East. The research, published in Nature Communications, focused on the deadly 2023 floods in Derna, Libya, which resulted in over 11,300 deaths. The study suggests that increased soil erosion played a critical role in worsening the effects of these unusual desert floods.
The researchers found that desertification, combined with rising seawater temperatures in the Eastern Mediterranean due to global warming, has led to intensified droughts and more frequent coastal rainstorms. These conditions are increasing soil erosion, leading to dangerous mudflows that are difficult to manage, particularly in regions with aging infrastructure.
The devastating floods in Derna were triggered by an unprecedented storm, “Medicane Daniel,” which struck the eastern Libyan coast in September 2023. The study shows that the floods were worsened by soil erosion, which increased the density of the floodwaters, contributing to the failure of two dams. These factors, combined with outdated flood control systems, led to the catastrophic destruction of 66% of Derna’s urban areas.
The researchers utilized advanced radar satellite images to analyze the changes in soil conditions before and after the storm. The findings emphasize the need for improved monitoring of arid regions using satellite technology to better assess and mitigate future flood risks.
The study warns that similar events could occur across North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, urging policymakers to take immediate action to address climate change and strengthen disaster preparedness in these vulnerable regions.
Reference: https://www.preventionweb.net/news/deserts-biggest-threat-flooding