A Comprehensive Study of Vegetation Health in Response to Climate Variability and Drought: Case of Assif el mal Basin, High Atlas of Marrakech

Abstract

The main goal of this study is to demonstrate how vegetation, in the Assif el Mal basin has changed over time especially considering the recurring drought and the various impacts of climate change. In decades the region has faced droughts worsened by changes in land cover due to urbanization resulting in higher temperatures and damage to vegetation. Woody plants play a role in regulating water and energy. Are essential for mitigating the effects of drought and maintaining a balanced environment. The Assif el Mal region is considered risk due to its vulnerability to drought which causes shifts in vegetation distribution influenced by changing climatic conditions. Using satellite data from 1985 to 2023 our study examines the relationship between drought, urbanization and vegetation. We will analyze indicators such as precipitation, temperature conditions, land surface temperature, soil moisture, land use land cover changes and vegetation health to gain an understanding of how vegetation patterns have evolved. Given that drought remains a climate related challenge our research highlights the importance of management strategies that can enhance resilience in regions facing climatic issues. This contributes insights to the discussion, on sustainable environmental management.