Due to high temporal resolution of MODIS it is used widely to
map flood events. But its low spatial resolution questions on
accuracy of delineating flood extent. In this regard, one of
the aims of the study is to check the accuracy of MODIS data
with respect to LANDSAT in mapping flood events in the
country without taking the difference in spatial resolution into
account. It is estimated that the MODIS data could help to
map the inundated area with an accuracy of 73–81% depending
on the mentioned indices used. Further, the comparative
analysis of NDWI, RSWIR and GSWIR using spatial statistical
techniques and visual interpretation suggests RSWIR
to be more efficient for delineating water bodies during floods.
Visual interpretation using past experience provides qualitative
results and statistical analysis presents quantitatively. The
flood was caused by heavy monsoon rains mostly in the
Eastern part of Baluchistan and flowed toward upper Sindh
province during early September 2012. It inundated 22 districts
of Pakistan with maximum cumulative extent of 13,157 km2.
The study also provides detailed information about the
affected land use/land cover in the country as mentioned in
Table 5.