Impact of Threshold Rainfall on Landslides: A Case Study of Kerala

A major natural hazard, landslides can seriously endanger infrastructure, property, and human life, especially in areas like Kerala that have high rainfall and steep terrain. To improve landslide risk assessment and aid in the creation of early warning systems, this research intends to examine the connection between past landslide incidents and rainfall patterns throughout Kerala. The study aims to determine crucial rainfall thresholds that can serve as triggers for slope instability by comparing rainfall data from neighboring rain gauge stations with historical landslide events. The study uses a slope stability model, which simulates the effects of heavy rainfall and determines the Factor of Safety (FS) for slopes in saturated soil conditions, to further evaluate the danger of landslides. This model maps stability throughout the research area by combining topographical, soil, and vegetation data. It is anticipated that the results would provide important information on areas that are vulnerable to landslides and pinpoint certain rainfall trends linked to landslide occurrences. The ultimate goal of this research is to support an efficient early warning system that will help residents in susceptible areas receive timely notifications and lessen the negative effects of landslides.