9. Mass Movement Landslide


A landslide is the very rapid movement of regolith down a very steep slope. A landslide occurs when the slope becomes unstable, which can be caused by road-building, quarrying, earthquakes or sea erosion.


Geography in the News Landslide in Ecuador, February 2022


A landslide in Ecuador’s capital city Quito has caused major damage. Rain had weakened the hillside, sending loose regolith downslope to collide with homes and a sports field.


The security department reported that at least 24 people were killed and another 47 were injured. Eight houses collapsed, with many more damaged.


Rescue workers and local neighbours began looking through the ruins to locate survivors. Soldiers were sent to help with the search and rescue efforts. Parts of Quito were left without power after electrical poles were brought down. The city council said that residents impacted by the landslide had been moved to emergency shelters.


Scientists have said that climate change is increasing the risk of heavy rains around the world with the warmer atmosphere holding more water.


1. Describe what a landslide is and how it occurs. 2. Where did the landslide in Ecuador take place? 3. How many people lost their lives or were injured by the landslide? 4. Describe the response to this natural disaster. 5. How has climate change increased the risk of events such as this?


6. The two images below show the effects of mass movement on a coastline. Identify what type of mass movement this is and give two reasons for your answer.


Mass movement affecting a coastline 131


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