Now Reading: Wayanad landslides study links climate, geology to disaster
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Wayanad landslides study links climate, geology to disaster
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…
The Story in Brief
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.
The Indian Opinion
The debate on Wayanad has been split between those who blame only extreme rain and those who cite unchecked construction. This study forces a middle ground: geology was complicit. Yet the same geological maps existed before July 2024. The real test is whether the Kerala government will now commission high-resolution hazard zonation for all landslide-prone slopes, not just study the wreckage after it slides.
Source: thehindu.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 1 sources.
