Slopes are present in almost all parts of the world, and they are typically found along riverbanks, valleys, mountains, and hills. Slopes are also present in areas prone to natural disasters, and slope failure can take place due to various reasons. In this article, we will explore different types of slope failure, their causes, and their characteristics.
Slope failure can be categorized into four main types:
Rockfall happens when a massive rock or boulder falls from the slopes due to the gravitational pull. The rocks can cause significant damage to life and property as they can roll down the slopes at high speeds.
In a sliding failure, the slope surface moves along a slope of weakness, such as a fault plane or bedrock joint. A sliding movement can be slow or fast, and it can cause minor to severe damage.
A toppling failure happens when the slope becomes unstable, and the rocks start to tilt forward or backward. Toppling failure can happen due to or without external triggers like earthquakes.
A rotational failure occurs when the slope slides along a curved surface, which results in a rotational or spinning movement. Such failures typically occur in cohesive soils and are usually slow-moving but can cause extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure.
Slope failure can occur due to various natural causes such as:
The characteristics of slope failure due to natural causes include soil or rock displacement, soil heave or deformity, cracking, and sliding of the slope surface.
Human activities can also contribute to slope failure, including:
The characteristics of slope failure due to human causes depend on various factors, including soil type, land use, and the severity of the triggering event. Such failures usually occur due to sudden soil deformation or subsidence, and the damage is localized.
Understanding the different types of slope failure and their causes is vital in identifying potential hazards and taking necessary precautions. Although it is impossible to prevent natural slope failures entirely, the risks can be minimized through proper planning, land use, and construction practices.
