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Preliminary method for anticipating the occurrence of precipitation-induced landslides in Seattle, Washington

Open-File Report 2000-469
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https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr00469

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Abstract

Analysis of precipitation data associated with historical landslide events in Seattle has resulted in the identification of precipitation thresholds for the initiation of landslides. Also, an air-temperature index for multiple landslide events is identified, and in conjunction with the precipitation thresholds, is used to develop a method for anticipating the occurrence of landslides during the December-March wet season. The precipitation thresholds are based on 3-day cumulative precipitation that occurred immediately prior to landslide events and antecedent 15-day precipitation that occurred prior to the 3-day amounts. The data indicate that 15-day cumulative precipitation influences the amount of subsequent 3-day precipitation required to initiate landslides. Results of the analysis also indicate that air-temperature data can be used to help identify times when conditions are conducive for the initiation of landslides. It is shown that a high percentage of precipitation-related landslides occurred on days when the daily maximum air temperature was between 46? and 56? F (9? and 13? C) and that nearly all of the slides occurred on days when the daily maximum air temperature was above 43? F (6? C).
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Preliminary method for anticipating the occurrence of precipitation-induced landslides in Seattle, Washington
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 2000-469
DOI 10.3133/ofr00469
Edition -
Year Published 2000
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Dept. of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey,
Description 29 p., :ill. (some col.), col. map ;28 cm.
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