Landslide caused deaths in Niteroi
Have you noticed that during this time of the year is very common the occurrence of landslides? This is a natural phenomenon which is part of the dynamics of transformation of Earth’s crust, but when happens near urban occupation, it provokes big losses.
It was exactly what happened in the city of Niteroi in Rio de Janeiro, at dawn last Saturday (11/10/2018), where a landslide on the hill of Boa Esperança caused deaths, destruction and interdiction of houses.
The heavy rains that hit the state of Rio de Janeiro left behind a very humid terrain, favoring the detachment of material from the top of the hill. When the cohesive force between the soil particles is overcome, begins the mass movement that results in the sad catastrophes, which unfortunately we are accustomed to see.
Although, it is a natural phenomenon, human action can interfere directly with the process of mass movement, through the not planned occupation in hillside areas, for example.
Removal of the vegetation from the soil, leaving it exposed, increases its susceptibility to landslides, since in these situations, the soil directly receives the impacts of raindrops, which favors erosion.
In addition, the construction of roads and highways contributes with slopes instability, due to the vibrations caused by vehicle traffic.
Now that you know the causes of landslides, you must avoid building in hazardous areas. Remember: prevention is the best remedy! Moreover, pay attention to the correct engineering techniques for the construction of adequate containments and do not forget to charge the public agencies responsible for appropriate risk prevention measures, such as mapping of vulnerable areas, as well as the adoption of policies to respond to natural disasters in areas vulnerable to landslides.
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