Using Lidar DEM to Map Landslides: Škofjeloško Cerkljansko Hills, Slovenia

Abstract

LiDAR has become an effective tool in landslide research, particularly in landslide mapping. While applicability of LiDAR and its derivative products has already been proven for identification of historical landslides worldwide, mapping shallow landslides triggered during stormy periods presents a greater challenge to landslide investigators. The main objective of the present study is landslide identification using Lidar DEM in the Skofjelosko Cerkljansko area, characterized by diverse morphology, dense vegetation cover and historical landslide records. Altogether 114 landslides were mapped using Lidar-derived hillshades, correlated with PSInSAR data, landslide database and a limited sample was later verified in the field. Field validation was limited due to steep, inaccessible terrain covered by forest. However, this study suggests that DEM analysis can remotely provide information about possible landslide activity and can help land managers in reducing landslide risk and avoiding potential disasters. But at the moment, little chance of automatizing the process is seen, as the landforms determined as indicative of landsliding, especially for the slope instabilities of smaller dimensions, are difficult to delineate without subjective expert opinion.