Approaches for mapping suscepibility to rockfalls initiation in carbonate rock-masses. A case study from the from the Sorrento coast (southern Italy)

A new combined approach for mapping susceptibility to rockfall initiation in carbonate rock-masses has been found more accurate than standard methods, particularly in the high-risk, densely populated and touristic areas of the Sorrento coast, Italy. This study integrated Romana's Slope Mass Rating (SMR) and Matheson's graphical tests, indexing their respective susceptibility classes while also considering joint sets and macro-structural features like faults and master joints. Statistical analysis of historical rockfalls in the test area validated this method, offering a more precise tool for assessing unstable slopes and guiding remedial interventions.

Apuzzo, D., De Vita, P., Palma, B., & Calcaterra, D. (2013). Approaches for mapping suscepibility to rockfalls initiation in carbonate rock-masses. A case study from the from the Sorrento coast (southern Italy). Italian Journal of Geosciences, 132(3), 380–393. https://doi.org/10.3301/ijg.2013.12