Morphometric Analysis and Hydrological Implications of Runoff Timing and Peak Discharge in the Hong Section of the Kilange Basin, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study provides a morphometric analysis of the Kilange Basin in Hong Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria focus on hydrological response and flood vulnerability. Using a 30 m-resolution Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and GIS-based analysis, linear, areal, and relief morphometric parameters were computed mathematically to assess runoff behaviour, watershed resilience, and flood potentials. The Hong section of the Kilange Basin, covering 707.96 km², features a fifth-order dendritic drainage network with a low bifurcation ratio of 1.64, indicating largely uniform lithology and minimal structural control. Key results include moderate drainage density (0.74 km/km²), high circularity ratio (4.98), and elongation ratio (0.71), reflecting a compact shape that favors rapid flow convergence. Relief metrics—relief ratio = 12.8 and ruggedness number = 0.40—suggest moderate runoff energy and balanced infiltration-runoff dynamics. Hydrological indices (Runoff Potential Index = 0.63, Lag Time Index = 0.27, Shape Index = 7.01) highlight the basin’s sensitivity to fast hydrological response and potential flood risks. To mitigate these risks, the study recommends structural measures such as check dams and contour bunds, enforcing land-use regulations in vulnerable areas, community-based early warning systems, and practices like agroforestry and water harvesting to enhance infiltration and water sustainability. These insights provide critical guidance for flood mitigation, water resource planning, and climate adaptation in data-scarce semi-arid regions of North-eastern Nigeria.