LANDSLIDES
Landslides: A rapid down slope movement of earth material. A thin layer of earth detaches from the bedrock. Then the land moves down hill as a solid mass, next itstops and aventually become pile of debris at the bottom. This is common on steep slopes, especially after heavy rain. landslides can either occur slow or rapidly reaching up to 200km/h. This mass movement causes almost $2 billion in damage and several deaths per year only in the United States.
Why does this happen: Unstable slopes are the causes of landslides. Gravity is also the ultimate force behind it. There are surfaces of land held together by different types of forces. Some could be tightly together (ex. clay) while others are loosely joined (ex.sand). Landslides occur when gravity overcomes the force of friction.
Why does this happen: Unstable slopes are the causes of landslides. Gravity is also the ultimate force behind it. There are surfaces of land held together by different types of forces. Some could be tightly together (ex. clay) while others are loosely joined (ex.sand). Landslides occur when gravity overcomes the force of friction.
Common Causes....
Water:
water reduces the friction between the bedrock and overlaying sediment. Too much water causes the sediments to flow which is why landslides occur after rainstorms.
Earthquakes:
When earthquakes occur on areas with steep slopes, soil slips causing landslides. The Earth's crust vibrates enough to distroy the force of friction holding sediments in place.
water reduces the friction between the bedrock and overlaying sediment. Too much water causes the sediments to flow which is why landslides occur after rainstorms.
Earthquakes:
When earthquakes occur on areas with steep slopes, soil slips causing landslides. The Earth's crust vibrates enough to distroy the force of friction holding sediments in place.
Damages...
Damages caused by landslides can affect the whole region. Landslides can disrupt transport links (roads, rails, car, ect.) and damage infrastructers (buildings/homes, electricity grids, communicataion networks, pipeworks). landslides can also have a major affect on reservoirs for water, gas, toxic, and polluting substance. Electricity and power stations could be lost including with many lives.
Protecting Yourself ..
If your inside a building: You would stay inside durning a landslide, take cover under a desk, table or other piece of sturdy furniture.
If your outdoors: Try your best to get out of the path of the landslide. You would run to high ground possibly. If rocks or other debris are approaching you must run to the nearest shelter.
Anywhere you are, if you cannot escape, curl into a tight ball to protect your head and body.
If your outdoors: Try your best to get out of the path of the landslide. You would run to high ground possibly. If rocks or other debris are approaching you must run to the nearest shelter.
Anywhere you are, if you cannot escape, curl into a tight ball to protect your head and body.