Design and implementation of a landslide early warning system: Fid-Bau Portal

Design and implementation of a landslide early warning system

Intrieri, Emanuele / Gigli, Giovanni / Mugnai, Francesco / Fanti, Riccardo / Casagli, Nicola

Abstract In this paper all the phases for the realization of the early warning system for the rockslide of Torgiovannetto in Central Italy are described. The landslide consists in a 182,000m³ rock wedge threatening two roads which are important for local transportation. The present work encompasses all the components of an early warning system, including the geological knowledge, the risk scenarios, the kinematic characterization of the landslide, the choice and installation of the monitoring system, the setting of appropriate alarm levels and the definition of plans of civil protection. The focus is on practical and logistical issues met in all these phases and the counter-measures adopted. At present the system consists in 13 wire extensometers, 1 thermometer, 1 rain gauge and 3 cameras. Should a velocity threshold be exceeded by two or more sensors, the attention level would be entered, causing improved monitoring and surveillance. In case the behavior of the landslide changes and, by using expert judgment and forecasting methods, an imminent failure is hinted, then an alarm is issued and the upper road is closed. This paper can provide ideas and solutions for a landslide early warning system that aims to be simple, flexible, versatile and with a low probability of giving false alarms.

Highlights ► An early warning system was set up on a rock wedge of 182,000m³ menacing a street. ► It includes a wireless sensor network with 13 extensometers and other sensors. ► Alarm levels and thresholds based on the characteristics of the site were selected. ► The system is simple and flexible and some ideas can be used for similar cases.