Geological and Geotechnical Perspectives on Seismic Hazard Assessment of Landslides

Abstract

The assessment of seismic hazard related to landslides is essential for understanding the complex interactions between seismic activity and slope instability, with direct implications for the protection of infrastructure and communities. This research investigates the role of geological and geotechnical conditions, seismic history, and slope dynamics in the triggering and evolution of earthquake-induced landslides. A multidisciplinary approach was applied, integrating detailed geological and geotechnical investigations with historical data on seismicity and past landslides. To improve the accuracy of the analysis, modern monitoring and modeling methods were employed: geophysical surveys for subsurface characterization, satellite remote sensing for deformation monitoring, and numerical simulations to reproduce slope behavior under seismic loading. The results indicate that areas with unfavorable geological structures, combined with moderate to high seismicity, present an increased probability of slope failure, generating significant risks for both the environment and society. These findings are highly relevant for disaster prevention policies, land-use planning, and the development of construction standards. The novelty of this research lies in applying natural hazard assessment methodologies to ground instability processes with unusual characteristics.