Abstract: The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the FFHIS (flash flood hazard index-based system)were applied for producing flash flood hazard zoning map in Xiqu gully by the ArcGIS software. The proposed index-based system processes information of seven parameters， namely， elevation， coalmine goaf risk zoning， waviness， vegetation types， rainfall intensity， soil types and slope angle. The assignment of different levels in the same parameter was based on the different severity. Based on the weight values， the data was superimposed to obtain the flash flood hazard zoning map. The historical flood events were used for validation. The validation showed that the flash flood hazard zoning map was consistent with the actual situations. The proposed index-based system and method were practical and effective for flash flood hazard assessment in Xiqu Gully.

Key words: flash flood, hazard assessment, index-based system, coalmine goaf catchment, the analytic hierarchy process