Slope instability recognition, analysis, and zonation

This chapter is presented in four sections. Section 1 provides an introduction to the subject of slope instability and landslide hazard zonation. Some methodological aspects of slope instability hazard zonation are dealt with in Section 2. The essential role of the earth scientist in modeling the spatial distribution of terrain conditions leading to instability is noted, and a scheme is given for a hierarchical approach to slope instability zonation that is similar to the phases recognized in engineering projects. An overview of current practice is given. In Section 3 emphasis is on the application of remote-sensing techniques to landslide studies and hazard zonation. A systematic guide is presented for recognition and interpretation of slope movements. The applicability of different remote-sensing data to landslide recognition is evaluated, considering their characteristic spatial, spectral, and temporal resolutions. The capabilities of a geographic information system (GIS) for analyzing terrain factors that lead to slope instability are highlighted in Section 4. An integration of data collection and analysis techniques is proposed for slope instability zonation at different scales.