Rockfall danger and risk analysis around a granite inselberg in the Vila Velha city (southeastern Brazil)

Marcos Eduardo Hartwig () and Lázaro Valentin Zuquette ()
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Marcos Eduardo Hartwig: Federal University of Espírito Santo, Alegre Campus
Lázaro Valentin Zuquette: São Paulo University

Natural Hazards: Journal of the International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, 2022, vol. 114, issue 3, No 39, 3309-3326

Abstract: Abstract Rockfall is a natural process of mountain slope evolution that can endanger human settlements adjacent to rock cliffs. The Morro do Moreno Hill is a granite inselberg with steep faces adjoining a densely populated area located in the Vila Velha city (State of Espírito Santo, southeastern Brazil). A large number of fragmented blocks are found amid vegetation cover in the foothills. In this study, rockfall danger was evaluated by means of 3D numerical simulations to reproduce trajectories followed by blocks coupled with field evidences. In addition, the rockfall risk rating system for settlements—R3S2, which is used for rockfall risk analysis of populated areas, has been applied. Only the SE and SW-facing slopes were analyzed, as they were considered the most critical. Numerical simulation revealed block trajectories reaching the urban area with high kinetic energy. The application of the R3S2 indicated high rockfall risk levels. In addition, an extensive talus slope deposit has been identified. Proactive actions have been proposed in order to assist local authorities. Finally, our findings demonstrated that block detachment from rock cliffs is governed by different predisposing factors.

Keywords: Geological hazards; Numerical simulation; Talus deposit; Slope dynamics (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1007/s11069-022-05519-0

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