Multi-temporal NDWI-based assessment of water resources and coastal changes in the Absheron Peninsula, Caspian Sea
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17721/1728-2713.114.07Keywords:
climate change, Remote Sensing, Caspian Sea, Absheron peninsula, climate actionAbstract
Background. Global warming has also caused drought in coastal areas. This is especially a pressing issue for urban areas located on the coast. Our study area, the Absheron Peninsula, is located on the western coast of the Caspian Sea. Located in a semi-desert and dry-desert climate, this area is home to the country's most important economic, administrative and social center, Baku. This both causes and is affected by climate change.
Methods. During the study, we used satellite image analysis to analyze water resources in the area. For this, we processed satellite images from 2001, 2013 and 2023 using ArcGIS software. The 2001 satellite images were obtained from Landsat 5, the 2013 images from Landsat 8 and the 2023 images were obtained mainly from Landsat 9 satellites.
Results. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that the water level in the lakes located on the peninsula has decreased significantly. Even the water of the Caspian Sea has receded in coastal areas. This is one of the most important problems for the highest and most densely populated urban area.
Conclusions. The analysis of multi-temporal satellite imagery shows a clear and continuous decline in water resources across the Absheron Peninsula over the past two decades. Both inland lakes and the Caspian Sea coastline have experienced significant water loss, reflecting the intensifying impacts of climate change in this semi-desert region. These changes pose serious environmental and socio-economic risks for Baku, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable water management and climate-resilient urban planning.
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