Vegetation Dynamics and Climatic Drivers as an Environmental Health index in South Darfur, Sudan.

Abstract

The study area faces significant environmental challenges, driven by the dual impacts of climate change and human activity. The aim of this study was to examine the spatiotemporal variations in vegetation cover in the period 2000–2023. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Integrated with monitor vegetation cover and the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). Data processing and analysis were conducted using the Google Earth Engine (GEE) and QGIS software. The results revealed a significant recovery in vegetation cover, with notable increases observed in 2005, 2010, 2020, and 2023. A sharp decline in vegetation cover in 2015 coincided with a severe drought period spanning 2011–2016. The SPEI analysis Indicated that the prolonged drought events from 1983 to 2010, followed by a notable reduction in drought frequency and intensity in recent years (2016–2024). These findings are further supported by the increase in mean annual rainfall during the study period, which contributed to vegetation regeneration. This study underscores the intricate relationship between climate variability and vegetation dynamics in regions affected by socio-political conflicts. These insights emphasize the urgent need for evidence-based conservation and land management strategies to enhance environmental sustainability.