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Geochemical characterization and health risk assessment of groundwater in Wadi Ranyah, Saudi Arabia, using statistical and GIS-based models

Research Abstract

Groundwater in Wadi Ranyah, the main water source for local communities, was analyzed using 77 samples to evaluate physicochemical properties, major ions, and heavy metal concentrations. While most parameters met World Health Organization (WHO) standards, levels of arsenic, lead, cadmium, chromium, and nickel exceeded permissible limits. Hydrochemical analyses were conducted using Piper and Durov diagrams, alongside health risk assessments based on statistical ratios established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA). The analysis identified two dominant water types (SO4·Cl–Ca·Mg and HCO3–Ca·Mg), influenced by ion exchange, evaporite dissolution, and silicate weathering. Health risk assessment, based on US EPA models, revealed significant non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks, particularly for children. Oral ingestion accounted for the majority of exposure

Research Authors
Ahmed A Asmoay, Eltaher M Shams, Wael F Galal, Ahmed Mohamed, Rashad Sawires
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
Environmental Geochemistry and Health
Research Year
2025