Risk Mapping: Flash Flood Hazards in SE Utah Slot Canyons

Imagine venturing into the narrow, winding corridors of a slot canyon, with towering sandstone walls that seem to touch the sky. These natural wonders, unique to the Southwestern United States, offer unparalleled beauty and adventure. However, beneath their serene and majestic exterior lies a hidden danger: the risk of sudden and devastating flash floods.

Slot canyons, with their steep, narrow passages, are particularly susceptible to flash floods. A storm miles away can send a torrent of water through these canyons with little warning, turning a calm adventure into a life-threatening situation in an instant. Understanding and predicting these flash floods is critical for ensuring the safety of canyoneers.

This project uses advanced spatial analysis tools within ArcGIS to better define the risk of flash floods in select slot canyons in Southeastern Utah. By analyzing watershed characteristics and environmental factors, I hope to provide a clearer picture of the flash flood risks associated with some of the most popular slot canyons in Utah.

My primary question is: Can ArcGIS spatial and imagery analyst tools be used to better define the risk of flash floods for canyoneering in select slot canyons in Southeastern Utah by analyzing watershed characteristics and environmental factors?