Comparative analysis of the distribution characteristics of geological hazards in the Lushan and Wenchuan earthquake-prone areas

Abstract

In the 21st century, the 2008 Ms 8.0 Wenchuan earthquake and the 2013 Ms 7.0 Lushan earthquake occurred in Sichuan Province, southwestern China. These two powerful earthquakes caused huge property loss and numerous human casualties. The frequent occurrence of geological hazards (including landslides and debris flows) has brought great challenges to disaster prevention and reconstruction work in earthquake-prone areas. Combing the research method of field investigations with visual interpretation of high-resolution remote sensing images, this study investigates areas with a seismic intensity ≥VII. In the study, a systematic analysis is conducted to clarify the distribution characteristics of geological hazards in the Lushan and Wenchuan earthquake-prone areas based on statistics released by the Ministry of Land and Resources, Ministry of Water Resource, Ministry of Construction of China, and other related departments. Such a clarification was done through GIS technology with varied factor combinations. Hopefully, comparative analysis on the distribution characteristics of mountain disasters in Lushan and Wenchuan leads to determination of distribution similarities and differences in areas with a seismic intensity ≥VII. The study concludes, in a systematic manner, distribution characteristics under distinctive geomorphic conditions, geological structures, and other conditions in the study area; thus can serve as a reference for disaster prevention and demographic readjustment in areas with similar conditions, promoting harmonious development of humans and nature there.