About Landslides
What causes a landslide?
A "landslide" happens when gravity forces
land downward, often due to too much or lack of precipitation,
runoff, or ground saturation. The wetting and drying of
the uppermost ground material results in alternate expansion
and contraction with gravity pulling the contracting Earth
downward. The term includes mudslides, debris flow, debris
avalanches, rock falls, and rock slides. Landslides usually
occur with another natural hazard, such as an earthquake
or flooding.
What are a landslide's
effects?
Public and private economic losses from landslides
include replacing and repairing damaged facilities, loss
of productivity, disruption of utility and transportation
systems, and reduction in property values. A severe landslide
can cause great financial hardship to a property owner because
many do not obtain earthquake insurance.