New Landslide Type Linked to Wildfires Discovered in Northwest Territories
What happened
Researchers discovered a new type of landslide in Canada’s Northwest Territories, termed permafrost detachment slides. These landslides, which involve large blocks of permafrost breaking off and sliding downhill, appear to result from wildfires in northern latitudes. The study found more than 150 instances of these slides, with some moving millions of cubic metres of land.
From geographical.co.uk
Why it matters
The research indicates that wildfires completely eradicate organic material, which affects the top layer of permafrost. Joseph Young, the lead author, noted that these slides can move material in days, a speed that standard permafrost failure would take decades to achieve.
From geographical.co.uk
Who's involved
- Joseph YoungLead author of the study and PhD student at the University of Alberta
- University of AlbertaUniversity where Joseph Young pursued his PhD
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- University of Nebraska systemSpeculative
Infrastructure in affected regions might face increased maintenance costs due to rapid permafrost degradation.
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The entities involved
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Joseph Young
British trade union leader
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University of Alberta
public research university in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada