The Use of Spectral Indicators in the Study Dynamic of the Al Jaforah Desert and its Environmental Effects in Eastern Saudi Arabia during 2000-2019

Abstract

 The Eastern Region is exposed to wind erosion in most seasons of the year, especially since the region is characterized by the presence of three sand seas represented in the Al-Dahna desert-the Jaforah desert-the Rub al khali desert, which exposes urban centers, agricultural lands and roads to the danger of sand encroachment that lies within these deserts, and is considered a desert Al-Jaforah of marine origin is one of the most influential in the region's environment.

The study has a descriptive approach and an analytical approach based on field study methods and analysis of satellite images using remote sensing techniques such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Change Detection, in addition to the Redness Rating Index and the Sand Normalized difference sand index (NDSI).

The study showed that crescent sand dunes and sand sheets are the dominant pattern in the desert of Al jaforah sands, and remote sensing techniques able to reveal its morphological and color characteristics, as it is yellow in color indicating its marine origin, while the pale brown and very pale brown color indicate its continental origin And that sand creeps at an annual rate of 15.5 meters, which in turn affected the geographical distribution of vegetation cover, in addition to its effects on urban centers and roads.