The Impact of Climate Change on Landslide Hazard and Risk

Abstract

The gradual increase in temperature recorded all over the world over the past fifty years and the more frequent occurrence of extreme weather events demonstrate that climate change no longer is just an idea born in the mind of some crazy scientists, but is a reality and a challenge that mankind needs to manage within the next few years. Climate change can have severe consequences for mankind, including the increase of geo-hydrological hazards. In some areas of the world landslide risk will grow significantly, even potentially adopting new forms, which the landslide profession and the exposed population community need to be prepared. Unfortunately, in spite of the commitment and the efforts of many mindful scientists, who are well aware of the potential risk increase, the response of stakeholders and politicians is still too slow. This paper describes the effects of climate change on landslide susceptibility, hazard and risk, summarizes the state of slope safety preparedness around the world and proposes steps for enhanced landslide risk management.KeywordsClimate changeExtreme weather eventsSnowmeltLandslide hazardRisk mitigation