Landslide hazard evaluation: The landslide hazard curves

This paper presents an innovative, practical methodology to establish priorities for slope monitoring and the planning of stabilization works in large hilly areas. The study is based on the analysis of geological and geomorphological maps, identification of catchment areas, and the division of catchment areas into primary (with main stream) and secondary (without main stream) sub-basins. Attention was focused on secondary sub-basins and their characteristics: lithology; an ad hoc parameter q (related to the average rainfall, the size of the basin, and the width of the toe section), and the average slope inclination i. The technique presented enables the "landslide hazard curve," unique for a given formation in homogenous areas with similar rainfall conditions and seismicity, to be drawn in a chart which features q and i. All the ascertained and assumed unstable areas represented in the chart are located above the landslide hazard curve. The study was carried out scientifically by taking into account engineering aspects (geological, geomorphological, hydrological, and geotechnical), which influence slope stability. Groundwater levels, important in mapping out landslide prone areas, were considered in the study by means of the parameter q.