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Dead Sea Coordinate Map for GIS and Geospatial Applications

The Dead Sea coordinate map is a critical geospatial resource for professionals working in GIS, remote sensing, surveying, environmental science, and spatial analysis. Located at the lowest exposed elevation on Earth, the Dead Sea presents unique cartographic and geodetic challenges that require precise coordinate systems, accurate projections, and consistent spatial referencing.


This technical guide explores how Dead Sea coordinate maps are used in GIS and geospatial applications, covering coordinate reference systems (CRS), projections, elevation modeling, and best practices for high-accuracy mapping.


Dead Sea Coordinate Map
Dead Sea Coordinate Map

Understanding the Geographic Context of the Dead Sea


The Dead Sea lies between Israel and Jordan, extending roughly from 31.1° to 31.6° N latitude and 35.2° to 35.6° E longitude. What makes it geospatially unique is its extreme elevation:


  • Average surface elevation: ~-430 meters (-1,411 feet) below mean sea level

  • Constant shoreline change due to evaporation and reduced inflow

  • Rapid sinkhole development is affecting land stability.


These characteristics make accurate GIS mapping essential for environmental monitoring, infrastructure planning, and scientific research.


Common Coordinate Systems Used for Dead Sea Mapping


The most widely used system for Dead Sea GIS data is WGS 84 (EPSG:4326).


  • Uses latitude and longitude

  • Global standard for GPS and satellite imagery

  • Ideal for data exchange and web mapping


Example Dead Sea coordinates (WGS 84):


Latitude: 31.5° N

Longitude: 35.4° E


While WGS 84 is essential for interoperability, it is not always ideal for distance or area calculations.


  1. Projected Coordinate Systems (UTM Zones)


For spatial analysis, the Dead Sea is typically mapped using UTM Zone 36N (EPSG:32636).

Advantages:

  • Metric units (meters)

  • Reduced distortion at the regional scale

  • Compatible with engineering and environmental studies


UTM projections are commonly used in:


  • Hydrological modeling

  • Infrastructure development

  • Land deformation analysis


  1. Local and National Coordinate Systems


Depending on the jurisdiction, local systems may be required:


  • Israel Transverse Mercator (ITM – EPSG:2039)

  • Palestine 1923 / Palestine Grid

  • Jordan Transverse Mercator (JTM)


These systems provide higher accuracy for cadastral mapping and government-regulated GIS projects.


Elevation and Vertical Datums at the Dead Sea


Why Vertical Datums Matter


The Dead Sea’s extreme negative elevation introduces complexities in vertical referencing.

Common vertical datums include:


  • Mean Sea Level (MSL)

  • EGM96 / EGM2008 geoid models

  • Local leveling benchmarks


Because the Dead Sea is below global sea level, elevation values must be carefully interpreted to avoid errors in:


  • Flood modeling

  • Terrain analysis

  • Engineering design



High-resolution DEMs are critical for Dead Sea applications:

  • SRTM (30 m resolution) – widely used, moderate accuracy

  • ASTER GDEM – higher resolution, variable quality

  • LiDAR-based DEMs – highest accuracy for local studies


GIS Applications of Dead Sea Coordinate Maps


Environmental Monitoring


  • Shoreline retreat analysis

  • Sinkhole detection and risk assessment

  • Water level change modeling


GIS time-series analysis relies heavily on consistent coordinate systems to track spatial change over decades.


Remote Sensing and Satellite Analysis


Dead Sea studies commonly use:


  • Landsat

  • Sentinel-2

  • MODIS


Accurate georeferencing ensures:


  • Correct pixel alignment

  • Reliable change detection

  • Cross-sensor data integration


Urban and Infrastructure Planning


Coordinate maps support:


  • Road and pipeline routing

  • Tourism infrastructure planning

  • Hazard zone mapping


Using a projected CRS minimizes distortion for distance and area calculations.


Scientific and Geological Research


Geospatial datasets help analyze:


  • Tectonic movement along the Dead Sea Transform Fault

  • Ground subsidence

  • Mineral extraction impacts


High-precision coordinate mapping is essential for reproducible research.


Best Practices for Using Dead Sea Coordinate Maps in GIS


  1. Always define the CRS explicitlyNever assume coordinate systems—misalignment can lead to errors of hundreds of meters.

  2. Use projected systems for analysis. Prefer UTM or local grids for measurements and modeling.

  3. Validate vertical datums. Confirm whether elevation data is ellipsoidal, geoid-based, or locally referenced.

  4. Account for temporal changeShorelines and elevation change rapidly—timestamp your datasets.

  5. Cross-check with authoritative sourcesUse national mapping agencies or scientific institutions for reference data.


Data Sources for Dead Sea Coordinate Maps


Reliable GIS data can be obtained from:

  • National mapping authorities (Israel and Jordan)

  • NASA and USGS EarthExplorer

  • Copernicus Open Access Hub

  • Academic and environmental research institutes


Ensure licensing and metadata are reviewed before integration into professional workflows.


A Dead Sea coordinate map is far more than a simple geographic reference—it is a foundational element for GIS and geospatial applications operating in one of the most dynamic landscapes on Earth. By choosing the correct coordinate system, projection, and vertical datum, professionals can ensure spatial accuracy, analytical reliability, and long-term data usability.


Whether you are conducting environmental monitoring, remote sensing analysis, or infrastructure planning, understanding Dead Sea coordinates is essential for producing high-quality geospatial outcomes.


For more information or any questions regarding the coordinate maps, please don't hesitate to contact us at


USA (HQ): (720) 702–4849

India: 98260-76466 - Pradeep Shrivastava

Canada: (519) 590 9999

Mexico: 55 5941 3755

UK & Spain: +44 12358 56710


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