Sinkhole Susceptibility Hazard Mapping Using Analytical Hierarchy Process and GIS Tools for the State of Kuwait

Abstract

Sinkhole studies of Kuwait have involved the investigation and risk assessment of sinkholes in specific areas. This study assessed sinkhole hazard susceptibility within the geographic borders of Kuwait by integrating the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) with geographical information system (GIS) software. As a result, eight criteria were selected: water table depth within soil cover, fluctuation of the water table within bedrock, proximity of faults, the existence of domes (surface anticline) within bedrock, earthquake zones, drainage class of the soil cover layer, soil cover depth, and distance between the top of the bedrock and the water table. Each criterion was further classified into five subcriteria. The developed sinkhole susceptibility hazard map (SSHM) classified Kuwait into five regions in terms of potential sinkhole susceptibility: very low, low, moderate, high, and very high potential. The SSHM was verified using data from sinkhole incidents in Kuwait and published records and literature regarding karst cavity development in the region. The SSHM can be used as a database for informing engineering decision-making processes, future risk assessment, and emergency planning.