Assessing groundwater potential in arid regions using geoelectrical resistivity and remote sensing: a case study from Egypt's Eastern Desert

Loutfy, Sherif , Ismail, Esam , Setto, Ibrahim , Abdelhady, Ahmed Awad

2025-07-12 MODELING EARTH SYSTEMS AND ENVIRONMENT 2025   11(卷), 5(期), (null页)

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Egypt faces a critical challenge of water scarcity driven by rapid population growth, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. In arid regions such as the Eastern Desert plateau between Minia and Beni Suef, developing robust models for groundwater exploration is vital. This study presents an integrated geo-electrical modeling approach that synthesizes Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) data, satellite remote sensing, and digital elevation models (DEMs) to delineate and evaluate groundwater-bearing formations. A total of 44 VES points, using the Schlumberger configuration (AB = 3-1000 m), were analyzed and constrained by lithological data from five boreholes. The resulting resistivity model reveals a consistent four-layer electrostratigraphy: a high-resistivity flinty limestone, overlying two marl layers (the lower of which is water-bearing), and underlain by a nummulitic fractured limestone aquifer of the Samalut Formation. The marl aquifer exhibits resistivities of 21.5-38.8 Omegam at depths of 60-120 m, while the deeper aquifer ranges from 116-223 Omegam and occurs between 170-300 m. Integration with 2-D resistivity profiles and a 3-D depth model reveals three NW-SE trending step-like normal faults that control aquifer geometry and thickness, with Fault F2 acting as a major boundary influencing facies distribution. This study introduces an original 3D structural-hydrostratigraphic model that integrates geomorphologic, tectonic, and geophysical datasets, offering an effective decision-support tool for sustainable groundwater development. The model framework aligns with contemporary earth system modeling efforts and is scalable for application in other structurally complex arid regions.