Due to high temporal resolution of MODIS it is used widely to map flood events. But its low spatial resolution questions on accuracy of delineating flood extent. In this regard, one of the aims of the study is to check the accuracy of MODIS data with respect to LANDSAT in mapping flood events in the country without taking the difference in spatial resolution into account. It is estimated that the MODIS data could help to map the inundated area with an accuracy of 73–81% depending on the mentioned indices used. Further, the comparative analysis of NDWI, RSWIR and GSWIR using spatial statistical techniques and visual interpretation suggests RSWIR to be more efficient for delineating water bodies during floods. Visual interpretation using past experience provides qualitative results and statistical analysis presents quantitatively. The flood was caused by heavy monsoon rains mostly in the Eastern part of Baluchistan and flowed toward upper Sindh province during early September 2012. It inundated 22 districts of Pakistan with maximum cumulative extent of 13,157 km2.
The study also provides detailed information about the affected land use/land cover in the country as mentioned in Table 5.