Classifying knowledge on climate change induced landslides in retrospect and prospect: A state-of-the-art review

Abstract

The frequency and intensity of landslides have increased due to variability in precipitation and temperature across the globe. Assessment of landslide risk is essential for devising effective mitigation and making societies resilient. Through an in-depth literature review from 1996 to 2021, this study carried out descriptive, thematic, and mechanism analyses of the current literature to identify the gaps in the literature and suggest a way forward. Findings revealed a steady increase in the publication of landslide studies over the years. Most of the studies were conducted on a regional scale. Modeling, landslides, climate change, multi-hazards, and vulnerability figured as the prominent keywords in the reviewed articles. Slope, precipitation, land use/land cover, proximity to coastal areas, risk, and adaptation strategies were found as the dominant thematic variables. A large number of reviewed articles utilized statistical models. Uncertainty in landslide-climate modeling, lack of advanced and interactive models for predicting landslide susceptibility; and less attention to environmental and economic vulnerability were identified as the major research gaps. Effective early warning systems, timely forecasting for landslides and effective risk assessment are also scant in the existing literature. The current study proposed a comprehensive future framework for landslide risk assessment and implies timely and appropriate landslide mitigation based on climate scenario data, deterministic models, and policy beliefs. Strengthening preventive actions, preparedness as an early warning system, immediate response mechanism, landslide adaptation behavior, socio-economic vulnerability, and decision support systems are suggested for future research.