Development of a time-varying MODIS/ 2D hydrodynamic model relationship between water levels and flooded areas in the Inner Niger Delta, Mali, West Africa

•The relationship between water levels and flooded areas in the Inner Niger Delta (IND) changes from year to year.•Equations were developed to capture that dynamic relationship using the outputs of a hydrodynamic model.•The relationship in a particular year depends on the maximum water level at Mopti and maximum flooded area for that year.•The maximum water level at Mopti and maximum flooded area are forecasted using observations in the Upper Niger Basin.