Climate change means more landslides in NZ – but new tech can help reduce the risk

Climate change means more landslides in NZ – but new tech can help reduce the risk

Climate change means more landslides in NZ – but new tech can help reduce the risk

https://theconversation.com/climate-change-means-more-landslides-in-nz-but-new-tech-can-help-reduce-the-risk-278518

Publish Date: 2026-04-22 21:49:00

Source Domain: theconversation.com

  • Recent extreme rainfall and related landslides in New Zealand highlight the significant threat and economic impact of landslides caused by natural hazards.
  • Landslides have historically caused substantial damage and fatalities in New Zealand, surpassing the danger presented by volcanic eruptions and earthquakes combined.
  • Climate change is intensifying the risk of landslides in New Zealand by increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events.
  • Scientists are leveraging advanced technology, including satellite imagery and machine learning, to better understand when and where landslides are more likely to occur.
  • New models can provide critical information to predict future landslide risks and influence land-use decisions, infrastructure planning, and risk management, while highlighting the importance of reforestation and limiting further climate warming to mitigate long-term landslide risks.