ReliefWeb

Abstract

The potential for loss of life and destruction of assets through landslides is increasing in many mountainous and hilly areas of Asia. Logging, residential and infrastructure development and other activities continue to expand on slopes highly prone to landslides. Excessive soil water content is the primary cause of slope failure while steep slopes, weak soils or topography that concentrates water are the main factors contributing to landslide risk. Poorly constructed roads and the loss of soil reinforcement and water extraction by tree roots increases the probability of landslides during trigger events such as prolonged heavy rainfall or earthquakes. Climate change prediction suggest that landslide frequency will increase in some areas of Asia as the frequency of extreme storms increases. Drought may also affect some areas resulting in root die-back, pest and disease outbreaks and wildfire - all of which are likely to reduce soil reinforcement provided by trees and increase landslide incidence.