Hydro-geomorphological characterization of the Rio Grande Basin, Brazil, using geospatial approach

Several studies have presented morphometric analysis as the key to understanding hydrological behavior or support tool for the assessment of natural resources and environmental risks in a river basin. The Rio Grande Basin has great socioeconomic and environmental relevance for Brazil; however, its morphometric characterization is not widely known. Therefore, we present the morphometric characteristics of the Rio Grande Basin (BHRG), from the geometric, relief, and drainage variables. Data processing was carried out using the Geographic Information System (GIS), from the Digital Elevation Model (DEM). The results indicate that the BHRG is of the fifth order, presenting a dendritic drainage pattern, low susceptibility to flooding under normal precipitation conditions, sinuous watercourses, and an undulating relief. In addition, the BHRG is permeable, poorly drained, and displays low capacity to generate and maintain drainage tracts. The findings can contribute to a better understanding of hydrological behavior on a river basin and support integrated water resource plans.