Index-based mapping and assessment of flood vulnerability for climate adaptation at the neighborhood level: A case study of Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic

Urban flooding is a growing challenge in densely populated cities, leading to significant human and economic losses worldwide. While progress has been made in flood risk management, assessments of neighborhood-level vulnerability remain neglected in cities across Latin America and the Dominican Republic. This study addressed this gap by developing a Flood Vulnerability Index (FVI) for Santo Domingo, integrating geospatial analysis and multi-criteria decision-making methods. Key indicators were identified through a literature review and expert consultations. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to assign weights to the indicators integrating exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. These were then aggregated to construct the FVI. The results, mapped at the neighborhood level and classified into vulnerability categories revealed disparities among neighborhoods of Santo Domingo, with 67 % of the neighborhoods moderately vulnerable, 19 % highly vulnerable, 13 % low vulnerable, and 6 % very highly vulnerable. Adaptive capacity emerged as the most significant determinant of vulnerability, surpassing exposure and sensitivity, emphasizing the need to prioritize interventions that enhance urban resilience. Several solutions have been proposed to bolster the adaptation capacity and mitigate the vulnerability of neighborhoods. Key policy recommendations include enhancing early warning systems, expanding urban green spaces, and improving flood protection infrastructure. This study provides a robust, GIS-based framework for identifying vulnerable areas and guiding targeted adaptation strategies. The framework can facilitate identifying vulnerable areas and guiding targeted adaptation strategies, offering valuable insights for urban planners, policymakers, and local communities in Santo Domingo and similar urban contexts.