An analysis of the spatiotemporal dynamics in the transformation of the natural volcanic landscape to an urban one in the city of Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.

Abstract

Xalapa has undergone significant urban growth, transforming its natural environment and causing recurring floods and landslides. The study compares the landscape between 1982 and 2024, showing that urbanization covers 68% of the municipality's area. This expansion has drastically altered water patterns. The loss of runoff, measured by Relief Density, drops from 4.2 km/km² in natural areas to 0.0 km/km² in urbanized areas. Morphologically, human activity has modified Cerro de Macuiltépetl ("Fifth Mountain"). Historical documents indicate that it was part of a volcanic cluster of five hills, a natural remnant altered by urban development.