Infrasonic and Seismic Analysis of Debris‐Flow Events at Illgraben (Switzerland): Relating Signal Features to Flow Parameters and to the Seismo‐Acoustic Source Mechanism

Abstract

AbstractDebris flows are among the most dangerous phenomena in mountain environment. Recently the use of seismic and infrasonic recordings has proven to be a powerful tool for studying and monitoring debris flows. However, open questions remain about how signal characteristics refllect flow parameters and fluid dynamic processes. We present a seismo‐acoustic analysis of the debris flow activity between 2017 and 2019 at the Illgraben catchment (Switzerland). Seismic and infrasonic amplitudes (maximum root mean square amplitude [RMSA]) and peak frequencies are compared with flow measurements (front velocity, maximum flow depth and density). Front velocity, maximum depth, peak discharge and peak mass flux show a positive correlation with both infrasonic and seismic maximum RMSA, suggesting that seismo‐acoustic amplitudes are influenced by these flow parameters. Comparison between seismo‐acoustic peak frequencies and flow parameters reveals that, unlike seismic signals, characterized by a constant peak frequency regardless of the magnitude of the flow, infrasound peak frequency decreases with increasing flow velocity, depth and discharge. Our results suggest that infrasound and seismic waves are generated by different source processes, acting at the flow free surface and at the channel bed respectively. We propose that infrasound is likely generated by waves and oscillations that develop at the surface of the flow, which, according to fluid dynamics, are mostly generated wherever the flow encounters significant channel irregularities. Furthermore, the observed positive correlations between seismo‐acoustic signal features and flow parameters highlight the potential to use infrasound and seismic measurements for debris‐flow monitoring and risk management.