Kinematic and Dynamic Behavior of a Coastal Colluvial Landslide in a Low-Elevation Forest
Source abstract
Abstract
This study examines the kinematic behavior of a large-scale colluvial landslide in a coastal low-elevation forest, where rainfall, geological formations, and hydrological conditions drive substantial slope displacement. The landslide comprises a colluvial layer overlying mudstone, with downslope movement toward the coastline induced by gravitational forces and infiltration. Using GPS surveys, inclinometers, soil moisture sensors, and numerical modeling, the temporal and spatial patterns of displacement were analyzed. Maximum horizontal displacements reach 8.1 cm/year, with deep-seated movements extending over 25 m into the mudstone. Key mechanisms include weakening of the colluvium–mudstone interface and creep within saturated mudstone, while a hydraulic barrier near the coastline restricts subsurface flow. Progressive upslope migration of the freshwater-bearing mudstone zone under annual rainfall further contributes to long-term deformation. These findings provide critical insights into the hydrologically controlled kinematics of coastal colluvial landslides.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Landslides and related hazards · Tree Root and Stability Studies · Geotechnical Engineering and Analysis
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Department of Construction Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan
SINOTECH Engineering Consultants, Ltd., Taipei 105, Taiwan
Water Resources Bureau, Kaohsiung City Government, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan
Funding
National Science and Technology Council
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