Evaluating the contribution of geophysics to the assessment of natural hazards

Abstract

This paper discussed the role of geophysics in the evaluation of natural hazards with the view to enhancing familiarity with earth shakes, ground characteristics, landslide likelihood, and volcanic deliveries. Semantic and geophysical data were collected from seismic surveys, measurement of groundwater, electrical resistivity of the subsoil and gas emission. Seismic data analysis revealed diverse activity across sites, with magnitudes ranging from 3.234 to 6.456 Mw, emphasizing the importance of geophysical monitoring in identifying high-risk areas. Groundwater measurements indicated spatial variations in water table depth from 1.234 to 6.789 m, essential for effective resource management. Soil resistivity values ranged from 75.123 to 145.901 Ohm-m, providing insights into soil properties relevant for geotechnical and environmental studies. Landslide susceptibility assessment used the factor of slope angle, vegetation cover, and rainfall intensity; these were 10. 901° to 28. 345°, 55. 234% to 88. 456%, and 6. 789 to 20. 901 mm/hr respectively. The gas emission of SO2 ranged between 0. 123–0. 901 kg/s, that of CO2, 0. 456–1. 234 kg/s, while H2S ranged between 0. 789–1. 567 kg/s based on the emission of the several sites suitable for eruption prediction models. A statistical approach was used in which Histogram, scatter plot and radar chart were used to explain the data collected. The study conclude that the application of various geophysical methods is strikingly useful in natural hazard and risk assessment and planning and therefore beneficial in reducing disaster risks. These results provide compelling evidence about the importance of geophysics in propagating awareness in the Earth processes and improvement of hazards.