The ability of space technology to provide basic information in space, time and frequency domains has been proved to be very useful in providing permanent records by mapping, monitoring and managing flood dynamics. In July 1993, floods were at their devastating worst in Punjab (India) for the second time since September 1988. In this study, IRS 1A LISS-I false colour composites and ERS panchromatic images were used to obtain near real time information on damage due to floods in July 1993. The flood map of September 1988 was also used to monitor the flood damage. The flood maps for the year 1988 and 1993 were superimposed to prepare a combined map on a 1:500 000 scale to extract and demarcate flood prone areas in Punjab (India). This study suggests that during 1988, the flooding was mainly due to overflowing of rivers, whereas in 1993 it was due to breaches in embankment of rivers and canals.