Analysis of the causes of giant landslide clustering in the upper reaches of the Yellow River since the Holocene

Abstract Background The Liujiaxia-Manglaxia segment of the upper Yellow River, located at the northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, has experienced significant clustering of giant landslides since the Holocene, acting as a critical surface process shaping the regional geomorphology. While tectonic activity and climate change are recognized as primary drivers, the coupling mechanisms triggering landslide clustering during climate transitions remain unclear. Methods This study compiled an inventory of 14 giant Holocene landslides in the upper Yellow River by integrating literature review, field investigation, and remote sensing. We calculated the distance between landslides and faults using ArcGIS, and inferred triggering factors based on deposit characteristics and mechanical deformation modes. Finally, by integrating high-resolution paleoclimate records, we investigated the coupled tectonic-climatic driving mechanisms behind landslide clustering. Results Since the Holocene, giant landslide clusters in the Liujiaxia-Manglaxia section of the Upper Yellow River have exhibited pronounced spatiotemporal clustering. Temporally, these events occurred primarily across four distinct phases: 10–8 ka B.P., 5.0–4.5 ka B.P., 4–3.7 ka B.P., and the modern era, with the 5.0–4.5 ka B.P. interval representing the most intensive period. Spatially, the landslides are predominantly distributed within the Jishixia Canyon and along the right bank (looking downstream) and concave banks of the Yellow River. The transitional phase from arid to humid climate conditions is identified as the critical stage for these giant landslide clusters. During this period, intensified precipitation served as a primary driver, while the lag effect of vegetation response and cumulative slope damage induced by earthquakes during preceding arid intervals also played significant roles in the clustering phenomenon. Conclusion The transition from a dry to a wet climate promoted the clustering of giant landslides through the combined effects of increased precipitation, the lag effect of vegetation change, and tectonic activity.