Spatio-temporal remote sensing evaluation of drought impact on vegetation dynamics in Balochistan, Pakistan

Drought is one of the significant natural disasters that has a profound impact on human societies, particularly in arid places such as Balochistan, Pakistan. Geographic information system and remote sensing has played a major role in predicting the effect of drought events and mitigate. Therefore, the purpose of this study was firstly to evaluate the spatiotemporal patterns of drought in Balochistan, Pakistan, utilizing MODIS based satellite data and validate the PMD stations data with CHIRPS data. Secondly the objective of this research to quantify the influence of drought on vegetation anomalies and comparison between droughts patterns with vegetation response. Drought conditions in Balochistan by integrating remote sensing (RS) drought indices (RSDI).RSDI was calculated through Hargreaves method using monthly data. The following remaining indices were the main focus of the study i.e., Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), Vegetation Health Index (VHI), Temperature Vegetation Dryness Index (TVDI), and Precipitation Condition Index (PCI). These indices offered differing perspectives, emphasizing the value of a comprehensive strategy. Approximately 60% of the area was significantly affected by drought conditions, with SPEI values for the period being less than -1.5.SPEI and TVDI performed better in identifying droughts. TVDI values ranged from 0.63 to 0.88, indicating agricultural dryness. For instance, the East experienced a severe drought between 2001 and 2022, according to SPEI. Significant drought events occurred in 2001, 2004, 2009, 2014, and 2022, allowing comparative analysis. TVDI proved more effective than VCI in predicting drought. RDI and TVDI localized drought better than PCI. SPEI, RDI, and TVDI contributed significantly to understanding drought (73.63%, 74.15%, and 72.30% respectively). Considering diverse indices is vital for long-term drought mitigation strategies. RDI, especially valuable with limited temperature data, aids in understanding drought dynamics. This analysis aids in predicting future droughts and mitigating agricultural losses in Balochistan, informing decision-making and adaptive measures.