Analysis of Landslide Vulnerabilities in Small and Medium-Sized Cities of ColombiaⅠ: With Focus on Physical Vulnerability

Abstract

Colombia has experienced many problems in its urban areas due to increase in population in these areas. In particular, because of recurring slope disasters in urban areas, it has become necessary for the Colombian government to analyze these hazards. In this study, we selected a test bed with a high-potential source area in the small and medium city and conducted the physical vulnerability assessment of the test bed. First, we collected and analyzed the causal factors and landslide inventory. Using the landslide inventory and spatial information database, we performed a susceptibility assessment to identify high-potential landslide source areas. Next, we defined the parameters (travel angle, maximum velocity, etc.) for the Flow-R model analysis, which we used to calculate the propagation zone of debris flow. For the vulnerability assessment, we used road sections to define the boundary zones. Finally, we developed and evaluated the physical vulnerability map of Soacha using the propagation zones of debris flow and the boundary zones. The physical vulnerability assessment technique developed through this study will provide useful information for future urban planning and disaster prevention in Colombia. Keywords: Landslide, Physical Vulnerability, Spatial Information, Flow Analysis