2026-06-01 JOURNAL OF AFRICAN EARTH SCIENCES 2026 238(卷), null(期), (null页)
The southern part of the Egyptian Red Sea coast and Eastern Desert represent a geodynamically active and environmentally fragile region where sustainable development requires integrated geomorphological, geophysical, and structural insights. This study employs a multi-dataset approach, combining Digital Elevation Models (DEMs), aeromagnetic surveys, gravity-derived density mapping, and structural lineament analyses, to investigate the interplay between topography, subsurface structures, and resource potential. The region receives less than 10 mm of annual rainfall, reflecting its hyper-arid climate. DEM analysis reveals stark elevation contrasts between the rugged Eastern Desert (peaks >800 m) and the narrow coastal plain, controlling runoff distribution, ephemeral stream formation, and hazard patterns. Aeromagnetic data, processed using enhanced filtering techniques, delineate lithological boundaries and fault networks associated with Red Sea rifting. Gravity-based density mapping further distinguishes between dense mafic/ultramafic bodies linked to mineral deposits and low-density sedimentary basins favorable for aquifer storage. Structural lineament overlays highlight tectonic controls on drainage pathways and groundwater potential. Key results include: (1) DEM analyses identify 23 high-flood-risk basins with slopes >25 degrees; (2) Processed aeromagnetic data delineate NE-SW fault networks controlling 82% of major wadi alignments; (3) Integrated mapping reduces groundwater exploration uncertainty by similar to 40% through fracture corridor targeting; (4) Hazard zonation delineates approximately 15,200 km(2) (10% of the study area) as high-risk for flash flooding. Geodynamically, the integrated approach provides insights into rift-related processes, though detailed interpretation of Pan-African fabric reactivation requires additional seismic or field validation. Practically, the results support hazard mitigation, targeted groundwater exploration, mineral prospecting, and infrastructure planning. This study underscores the value of geophysical integration as a decision-support tool for balancing economic development with environmental resilience in arid coastal regions. Future work should extend this synthesis with seismic imaging and machine-learning approaches to enhance predictive capacity in this strategically vital region.