# Wayanad landslides study links climate, geology to disaster 2026-08-09T08:41:15+00:00 | Health & Science | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet A new study published in the journal Landslides reveals that the July 2024 Wayanad disaster was not caused by extreme rainfall alone. Nearly 573 mm of rain in 48 hours triggered a slope failure on July 30, but underlying geology, shear zones, fractures, and weathered rock, determined where the landslide began and why it grew so destructive. The debris travelled 8 km, dropping 768 metres, and swept through Punchirimattam, Mundakkai and Chooralmala. The study, led by researchers from the University of Kerala, IISER Mohali, and Savitribai Phule Pune University, used field mapping, drone LiDAR, and rock analysis conducted in April 2025. It found that ancient crystalline rocks with natural weaknesses allowed rainwater to penetrate deeply, turning hard rock into soft material. Natural dams formed behind constrictions in the valley, and their collapse released surges that multiplied the destruction. ## Coverage - thehindu.com Tags: climate, disaster study, geology, Kerala, Wayanad landslides, Western Ghats Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/study-finds-climate-and-geology-interplay-in-wayanad-landslides/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/study-finds-climate-and-geology-interplay-in-wayanad-landslides/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.