GIS techniques and statistical models in evaluating landslide hazard

Abstract Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and numerical cartography may greatly facilitate the development and use of statistical models for the assessment of regional landslide hazard. From a small drainage basin located in Central Italy, relevant geological and geomorphological factors were collected and processed by applying GIS technology. In particular, modules were used which both generate high‐fidelity digital terrain models and automatically partition the terrain into main slope‐units. The resulting information was then analysed by discriminant analysis which enabled landslide hazard and risk to be evaluated in each slope‐unit. Although not lacking drawbacks, the method proved to be a feasible and cost‐effective approach to landslide susceptibility assessment and mapping.