Landslide Hazard Identification and Monitoring

Debris flows, sometimes referred to as mudslides, mudflows, or debris avalanche, are fast-moving landslides that can carry large items such as boulders, trees, and cars and can destroy objects in their paths. Typically, debris flows occur during periods of intense rainfall or rapid snowmelt, and usually start on hillsides or mountains. Considerable roadway damage occurred in July 2023 VT rains causing from uphill landslide and debris flows spilling onto roadways. This was a new phenomenon at this magnitude for Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) which required them to engage outside expertise to understand long- and short-term risk, develop standard details for rapid repairs, and in some cases, case specific recommendations. There is safety and cost-saving value in identifying the future hazard potential and to develop strategies for preparing for, warning of, and responding to the debris flow hazard. Identifying higher risk areas and monitoring of these areas will facilitate asset management, improve roadway safety, reduce the need for emergency road closures, and reduce long- term costs associated with repeated emergency responses.

    Language

    • English

    Project

    • Status: Active
    • Funding: $134753
    • Contract Numbers:

      VTRC024 602

    • Sponsor Organizations:

      Vermont Agency of Transportation

      219 North Main Street
      Barre, VT  United States  05641
    • Start Date: 20240901
    • Expected Completion Date: 20260331
    • Actual Completion Date: 0

    Subject/Index Terms

    Filing Info

    • Accession Number: 01933215
    • Record Type: Research project
    • Source Agency: Vermont Agency of Transportation
    • Contract Numbers: VTRC024 602
    • Files: RIP, STATEDOT
    • Created Date: Oct 10 2024 2:13PM