Abstract:
The most common natural landslide triggers are described in this chapter, including intense rainfall, rapid snowmelt, water-level change, volcanic eruption, and earthquake shaking, and examples are provided in which observations or measurements have documented the relationship between triggers and landslides. Some geologic conditions that lead to susceptibility to landsliding caused by these triggers are identified. Human activities that trigger landslides, such as excavation for road cuts and irrigation, are not discussed in this chapter. To the extent possible, examples have been selected that illustrate landslide damage to transportation systems.
Supplemental Notes:
Special Report 247 is also available in hardcover (ISBN 0-309-06151-2). Distribution, posting, or copying of this PDF is strictly prohibited without written permission of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials in this PDF are copyrighted by the National Academy of Sciences. Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.
