Satellite data potential for landslide studies in tropical regions

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that satellite data applicability for landslides studies is given concentration in tropical regions, which have two limitations; regular cloud cover and thick vegetation.

Design/methodology/approach

Landslide studies have three categories: mapping, zonation, and monitoring. High spatial resolution images are convenient for mapping. Since the slope and slope materials are the dominant parameters for slide potential, a high resolution DEM produced from the above data with classification of multispectral data will be vital for zonation. Weather‐free and penetration are advantages that make radar images essential for monitoring.

Findings

A composition of satellite data with support of aerial photography, with its high spatial resolution, will give an excellent spatial database for these studies.

Originality/value

Satellite remote sensing data are applicable for landslides studies in non‐accessible mountainous tropical regions.

Citation

Jeber, F., Omar, H., Mansor, S., Ahmad, N. and Mahmud, M. (2008), "Satellite data potential for landslide studies in tropical regions", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 17 No. 4, pp. 470-477. https://doi.org/10.1108/09653560810901719