Understanding Landslides: Causes and Impacts

Hello, we are going to talk about landslides. For us, this is really a massive natural disaster because it has a strong impact on all aspects, like the environment, the economy, and security. It is important to know about them because, basically, they can happen anywhere in the world. But first of all, what is a landslide?

Understanding the Causes of Landslides

It's important to understand the causes of this natural disaster because often people think that natural disasters are caused by supernatural forces. For example, in Mexico, some people believe that earthquakes happen in the month of September. Similarly, with landslides, some people think they are caused by a punishment from God or because Mother Nature is angry, but this is completely false. Let me give you the real causes of landslides.

When discussing landslides and their causes, it's helpful to categorize these causes into three main areas: Geology, Morphology, and Human Activity. Each of these factors contributes in different ways to the occurrence and severity of landslides.

Geology

Geology refers to the physical composition and structure of Earth's crust. In the context of landslides, certain geological conditions can make an area more susceptible to sliding, such as:

• Type of Rock and Soil
• Layers: Water can accumulate and weaken the structure.
• Faults and Fractures

Morphology

Morphology deals with the form and surface features of the Earth. This includes the shapes of landscapes, slopes, and landforms, which can influence landslide risks.

Human Activity

Human actions can significantly impact the likelihood of landslides, often exacerbating natural susceptibilities. These actions include:

• Deforestation
• Construction
• Mining and Quarrying
• Irrigation and Water Management

Understanding the interplay between geology, morphology, and human activity is crucial for assessing landslide risks and implementing effective mitigation strategies. By addressing these factors, communities can better prepare for and potentially prevent the destructive impact of landslides.

Finally, we hope that this information is useful for all of you, and if at any time in your life you see a landslide, you will know how to act in a situation like this.