Initiated by Dr. Xin Wei, University of Michigan
Ongoing development by the community

Understanding slow-moving landslide triggering processes using low-cost passive seismic and inclinometer monitoring

Citation

Fiolleau, S., Uhlemann, S., Dufour, C., Bièvre, G., Coccia, C., Mourier, B., Labazuy, P., Malet, J.P. (2023). Understanding slow-moving landslide triggering processes using low-cost passive seismic and inclinometer monitoring. Journal of Applied Geophysics, 218: 105170. Link to paper

Abstract

The study presents a novel approach combining passive seismic and low-cost inclinometer monitoring methods to improve the understanding of landslide activation mechanisms and their controls. The approach was evaluated on a shallow, slow-moving landslide directly endangering a road bridge, a bridge that is part of an important emergency response route. Seismic precursors detected at the bottom sensor a few hours prior to the reactivation are followed by the reactivation of the landslide toe, releasing stresses in the top part that lead to the reactivation of the whole landslide. This reactivation occurs during an episode of heavy rainfall following a 7-month drought, while temperature monitoring enables tracking of water infiltration and highlighting its role in the landslide mechanisms.