Preparing for landslide disasters: Lessons learned from 20 years of USGS landslide response

Disasters resulting from landslides are unfortunately an inevitable circumstance given the intersection of society and mountainous terrain. Whereas emergency responders are generally tasked with initial disaster response, landslide experts are also often called upon to participate and aid in these types of events. However, there are limited references that describe what a landslide response may look like or that outline how landslide experts might best contribute to response efforts. Using collective USGS experiences developed over 20 years of responding to landslide disasters, this presentation will provide an overview of types and factors affecting landslide response and discuss how those involved in the landslide community can prepare for a potential call to action.

Collins B (2022) Preparing for landslide disasters: Lessons learned from 20 years of USGS landslide response. USGS Landslide Hazards Seminar, 9 March 2022.