Drought severity estimation using NDWI index in Parbhani district of Maharashtra

Abstract

The study was carried out to investigate the impact of drought on vegetation in Maharashtra's Parbhani district, utilizing remote sensing techniques. Analysis of Landsat 8 data for 2015 (a drought year) and 2020 (a normal year) reveals fluctuations in the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) closely correlated with rainfall patterns. In 2015, NDWI indicated extreme drought conditions, while in 2020, most areas experienced mild drought. The comparison underscores NDWI's sensitivity to rainfall variability and dry spells. Meteorological factors, geographical features, and human activities influence moisture content in vegetation and soil, reflected in the distribution of drought severity classes. In 2020, a higher percentage of the area fell into the moderate drought category, shifting to extreme drought with reduced rainfall. This incremental shift highlights the susceptibility of the Parbhani district to drought conditions, emphasizing the interplay of natural and anthropogenic factors in drought assessment and management.