Mass movements, hazard and risk assessment using GIS: a case study in the Wutach valley (Southern Black Forest, Germany)

The results of a study of hazard and risk by mass movements using GIS techniques in the area of Blumberg, Wutach river valley, Southern Black Forest is presented. A mass movement hazard map, a mass movement intensity map, and elements in risk map also were developed. Hazard by mass movement is significant in the area of study, therefore prevention and remediation actions need to be taken into consideration. GIS techniques were used to combine those thematic maps and to produce a risk classes map. As result, risk by mass movements in the area tends generally to be negligible, (heavy rainfall is the main trigger factor in the area), the risk by mass movements in the area does not have to be ignored. Areas where the risk is medium, means unacceptable risk like along the road Blumberg-Achdorf, and the part of the village of Blumegg needs to be necessarily extensively monitored.