TMCnet News
Devastating Landslide in Laguna Beach Could Have Been Averted or Minimized by New Predictive Mapping Technology by GeokaTRIER, Germany --(Business Wire)-- June 2, 2005 -- The new hazard mapping technology from Geoka shows the exact locations of the natural processes which led to the devastating landslide in Laguna Beach this week. Geoka's Ladwein Map explains the causes of the landslide by disclosing where strong rain weakened the soil, leading to the property damage. The timely application of the Ladwein Map would have enabled engineers to properly assess the threat to the affected multi-million dollar homes and to construct adequate defensive measures. The Geoka technology differs strongly from conventional methods used by geologists. While traditional geological appraisals require investigations, drillings and chemical soil examinations, the new technology of Geoka allows for a software based analysis by a 3D model of the area. Conventional methods usually do not detect unidentified weak zones, while the Ladwein Map of Geoka will uncover the cause of previously unknown weak zones. The results of the Ladwein Map are plot-exact: if there are two properties next to each other, the map can clearly distinguish if natural processes are affecting only one of them. Geoka's information enables the residents of an area to assess their individual hazard potential plot-exact and thus more objectively - instead of living in a vague uncertainty in which they are told by officials that "large parts" of an area are hazardous. Leading engineering companies and communities in Europe already use the Ladwein Map in order to detect hidden natural drainage processes and to secure affected building grounds. Geoka has produced a Ladwein Map of the affected area in Laguna Beach, Calif. The map clearly shows the exact location of the landslide. The Ladwein Map of Laguna Beach will soon be available for downloading from Geoka at www.geoka.com. The La Conchita map is available for downloading. About Geoka The Geomorphologic Research Center Geoka has developed the SPIRS procedure for the detection of unknown risk potential. The Ladwein Maps of Geoka are offered as hard copies and in electronic format. They disclose natural processes in flat and in steep areas, thus enabling appropriate precautionary measures. The SPIRS procedure can be used for all planning (buildings and infrastructure). Additional information can be found on Geoka's website at www.geoka.com. |
