Analyzing the Impact of Climate Change on the Dynamics (Density and Distribution) of Vegetation Cover in the Northern and Northeastern Parts of Wasit Governorate Using Remote Sensing Indices for the Period 2005–2025

Abstract

This study analyzes the impact of climate change on vegetation cover and thermal conditions in northern and northeastern Wasit Governorate between 2005 and 2025 using remote sensing data and GIS techniques. Several indices were applied, including the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), vegetation condition and health indices (VCI, VHI, TCI), and Land Surface Temperature (LST). The results indicate significant spatial and temporal variability in climatic conditions, directly influencing land cover dynamics. Large areas experienced moderate to severe dryness, while humid zones remained limited. This was associated with a clear decline in vegetation cover and increased thermal stress. The findings also reveal an inverse relationship between vegetation and thermal indices, suggesting that reduced vegetation contributes to higher surface temperatures. Overall, the study highlights the strong interdependence between climate, vegetation, and temperature in regions with high climatic variability.