Abstract:
Urban flooding is a prevalent issue worldwide, particularly in developing countries with rapidly
increasing urban populations. Ethiopia is no exception, and flooding has devastating impacts
on people's lives and safety. This study analyzes the causes and socioeconomic effects of
flooding in Chelenko town, Meta woreda. It also identifies coping strategies, maps flood
hazards, and provides guidance on early measures to reduce livelihood impact of flood. The
research employed a descriptive survey design, integrating quantitative and qualitative
approach. A sample of 304 households was selected using simple random sampling for surveys,
complemented by data from KIIs, FGDs, field observations, and document reviews. Data were
analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and averages, while
MCE integrated with GIS was utilized to develop a flood hazard map. This study shows that
flood hazards in Chelenko town is caused by a combination of natural and human-made factors
such as a lack of drainage systems (27.9%), heavy rainfall (20.4%), poor drainage lines
(14.3%), improper waste disposal (11.7%), land use change (8.8%), and urban expansion
(8.6%). These factors have impacted on housing equipment (28.1%), damage to houses (24.2%),
different health problems (19.5%), damage to infrastructure (13.2%), loss of incomes (10.2%),
temporary displacement from homes (4.1%), and loss of life and injuries (0.8%). To cope with
these issues, people in the area have employed a range of strategies, such as digging new
ditches, diverting waterways, filling sacks with sand, collecting and throwing water, and
safeguarding valuable properties. The study also developed a flood hazard map of the study
area, highlighting areas with high (41.46%), moderate (38.8%) and low (19.74%) susceptibility
to flooding. Based on the findings, the study recommends appropriate strategies to bring flood
resilience in the case site such as building and improving drainage infrastructures, guiding town
expansion by plan, proper public waste disposal, applying early warning systems, and
identifying the flood-susceptible zone.
