Heavy rains in Hong Kong increase landslide risk, with technology playing a crucial role in mitigating potential disasters.
In the sprawling metropolis of Hong Kong, the picturesque landscape, marked by towering hilltops jutting from the sea and sandwiched skyscrapers, embodies its striking charm. However, the close proximity of densely populated regions to these soaring slopes heightens the risk of landslides, particularly during the heavy rains of summer.
A potent reminder of this danger was vividly displayed in September 2023, as the city was battered by the worst rainstorm in over a century. The ensuing catastrophe resulted in severe landslides and extensive flooding, revealing shortcomings in the city's preparedness and response. John Lee Ka-chiu, the city's Chief Executive, promised improvements, acknowledging technological constraints that are being gradually addressed.
The safety of slopes was a critical area of concern following the disaster. In Shek O, rain-triggered mudslides and debris blocked the road, severing access. Shau Kei Wan, on the other hand, bore the brunt of a record-breaking rockfall, with a source area spanning close to 2,000 square metres (or approximately 22,000 square feet).
In response, the Geotechnical Engineering Office conducted a thorough examination of risk-reduction strategies, focusing on natural slopes situated near crucial infrastructure, such as busy roads with limited access.
Moving forward, new technology is being mobilized to improve identification of potentially dangerous slopes and enhance the ability to spot and respond to landslides during emergencies, a welcome development in the face of ongoing risks.
The deployment of autonomous drones is being integrated into a pilot project to survey thousands of natural slopes for safety purposes. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also being harnessed to create advanced landslide prediction models, using historical data on rainfall, slopes, and past landslides, aiming to refine warning systems.
expansive slope databases are being upgraded to facilitate data-driven decision-making, while the number of mitigation projects targeting natural slopes is set to increase annually. Public awareness is also being heightened through a new special landslip advisory issued ahead of the rainy season.
The Geotechnical Engineering Office is concentrating efforts on assessing high-risk areas such as Jardine's Lookout, Violet Hill, and Tai Wo Ping to improve hazard assessments and mitigation works. These initiatives aim to bolster the city's preparedness and response to landslides, ensuring a safer and more resilient urban environment in the face of Hong Kong's unique topography.
Science and technology are being employed to strengthen Hong Kong's response to landslides, a pressing issue in the city's environmental-science context. In an effort to improve identification of potentially dangerous slopes, autonomous drones are being integrated into a pilot project, while AI is used to create advanced landslide prediction models.
