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Deadly landslides can happen in the space of minutes,

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but factors that cause landslides can be detected ahead of time

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and from space.

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With satellites, NASA scientists have developed a new model

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to estimate where and when landslides may strike around the world using real-time information.

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The model, known as Landslide Hazard Assessment for Situational Awareness,

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estimates which regions have a moderate or high chance of landslides every 30 minutes.

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For the first time, potential landslide activity can be seen globally.

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These regions are identified by several factors.

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First, the model uses the Global Precipitation Measurement Mission to track rainfall

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- the most widespread and frequent trigger of landslides worldwide.

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Then the model evaluates which areas with high rainfall

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are also prone to landslides using a susceptibility map.

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The regions highlighted in this map may have a combination of

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steep slopes, deforestation, a weak bedrock, road construction

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or are near Earthquake fault zones

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- factors that make land more prone to landslides in heavy rains.

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Scientists ran the model looking back 15 years

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to determine when and where potential landslide activity tends to happen around the world,

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or in essence when landslide season exists in different regions.

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When this model is compared to NASA’s database of landslide reports

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dating back to 2007,

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similar patterns emerge.

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For example, potential landslide activity peaks from February to April in Peru.

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Whereas in Taiwan the peak occurs in May and June.

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But not every landslide is seen or reported.

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The model also reveals landslide-prone regions that currently don’t have any reported fatalities in the database.

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Scientists will use the NASA model in combination with landslide reports

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to improve our understanding of where and when landslides may occur.

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Creating a global picture on this pervasive hazard will not only help vulnerable populations,

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but better inform disaster response and mitigation.

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