Dynamic Earthquake-Induced Landslide Susceptibility Assessment Model: Integrating Machine Learning and Remote Sensing

Abstract

Earthquake-induced landslides (EQILs) represent a serious secondary disaster of earthquakes, and conducting an effective assessment of earthquake-induced landslide susceptibility (ELSA) post-earthquake is helpful in reducing risk. In light of the diverse demands for ELSA across different time periods following an earthquake and the growing availability of data, this paper proposes using remote sensing data to dynamically update the ELSA model. By studying the Ms 6.2 earthquake in Jishishan County, Gansu Province, China, on 18 December 2023, rapid assessment results were derived from 12 pre-trained ELSA models combined with the spatial distribution of historical earthquake-related landslides immediately after the earthquake for early warning. Throughout the entire emergency response stage, the ELSA model was dynamically updated by integrating the EQILs points interpreted from remote sensing images as new training data to enhance assessment accuracy. After the emergency phase, the remote sensing interpretation results were compiled to create the new EQILs inventory. A high landslide potential area was identified using a re-trained model based on the updated inventory, offering a valuable reference for risk management during the recovery phase. The study highlights the importance of integrating remote sensing into ELSA model updates and recommends utilizing time-dependent remote sensing data for sampling to enhance the effectiveness of ELSA.

Keywords

• earthquake-induced landslides
• near-real-time optimization
• spatial similarity
• emergency management
• integrated remote sensing