The picture looks idyllic, but once upon a time part of the Blokktind mountain fell down in the sea causing big tidal waves up along the beaches in Rødøy on the coast of Helgeland. We still see remains of the giant landslide fan on the other side of the fjord.
Blokktind in Helgeland, Norway. Photo: Terje H. Bargel
Geohazards are events resulting from geological parameters and processes that represent serious threats to people, properties and the environment. Mapping, research and public management of knowledge relevant to such geohazards contribute to saving lifes and reduce damage to infrastructure and the environment.
Landslides
We can't prevent natural catastrophies, such as floods, landslides and earthquakes, but research leads to knowledge that can reduce the effects of damage.
The most common geohazards on land are soil- and clay-slides caused by heavy rainfall, flooding, erosion, earthquake or various human activities. Also large rockslides with subsequent tidal waves can cause tremendous damages. Earthquakes and other geological processes occurring offshore, as well as activities related to oil exploration and ¿exploitation, may cause large submarine slides.
Natural catastrophies
The worst natural catastrophies often hit poor and highly populated countries. However, more than 2000 people in Norway have lost their lifes i different kinds of slides during the past 150 years.
Published: 22. January 2008