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
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.