Landslide phenomena in the area of Pomarico (Basilicata–Italy): methods for modelling and monitoring

This paper takes into consideration landslide phenomena in the clayey slopes facing the built-up area of Pomarico which is situated in the southern part of the “Fossa Bradanica”, in Basilicata (Italy). Based on the great number of geologic, geomorphologic and historic informations a geotechnical model of the slope was built. Particular attention has been paid to define the geotechnical parameters of the soil and which mechanical models are to be used. The studies point out a correlation between the water level in the detritus cover and the stability condition of the slope showing that phenomena at first located at the foot of the slope spread quickly towards its summit as the piezometric height increases.     

Extreme temperatures linked to the atmospheric blocking events in Turkey between 1977 and 2016

Natural Hazards - Extreme maximum (Tx) and extreme minimum temperature (Tn) frequency distributions during summer and winter for blocked conditions were analyzed within Turkey during the period...     

Mass-radius relationships in icy satellites

Using published laboratory data for H₂O ice, we have developed a modeling technique by which the bulk density, density and temperature profile, rotational moment of inertia, central pressure, and location of the rock-ice interface can all be obtained as a function of the radius, the heliocentric distance, and the silicate composition. Models of the interiors of Callisto, Ganymede, Europa, Rhea, and Titan are given, consistent with present mass and radius data. The radius and mass of spheres of ice under self-gravitation for two different temperature classes are given (103 and 77°K). Measurements of mass, radius, and I/MR² by spacecraft can be interpreted by this model to yield substantial information about the internal structure and the ice: rock ratio of the icy satellites of Jupiter and Saturn.     

Interpretation of load tests on bored piles in the city of Matera

This paper briefly reviews several calculation methods to evaluate the bearing capacity expressed in terms of undrained strength (c_u) of piles bored in clay for their entire length and of piles whose tip is embedded into weak rock. The scope of the paper is to compare the results obtained with those from full-scale pile tests. These tests were carried out within the city of Matera which is well studied from a geotechnical point of view and for which there are statistically significant data on the geomechanical properties of the Subapennine Blue clays and the underlying Gravina Calcarenites. This represents the first attempt to show, on the basis of laboratory and field data, the influence of variability of the above mentioned soils and rocks on the real behaviour of deep foundations.For piles completely bored into Matera clay, the calculation in terms of total stress are able to interpret sufficiently well the bearing capacity of the piles. For piles having their toe embedded in calcarenite, the variability of the strength of the weak rock presents greater uncertainties in the calculation of base and soft resistance.     

A long-term analysis of thundersnow events over the Marmara Region,Turkey

This study aimed to reveal the temporal statistics, formation mechanisms, suitable land/sea surface (LS/SS) and upper-level atmospheric conditions, and predictability of thundersnow (TSSN) events that occurred between 2000 and 2021 in the Marmara Region with atmospheric stability indexes. Aviation reports from 11 airports were analyzed throughout the period, and no TSSN events were found at four airports. A total of 19 TSSN events were identified, and six events were found in 2015, when the sea-effect snow (SES) mechanisms were observed four times. The majority of TSSN events were of very short duration (0–1 h), and no significant trend was observed in terms of intraday distribution. SES mechanism was observed in 17 of the 19 TSSN events, and the dominance of northern flows was detected at all airports and at the sub-inversion upstream levels. In terms of air-sea interaction, suitable temperature differences between the SS and 850/700 hPa (17 °C and 27 °C on average), and the transfer of heat-moisture fluxes from the SS to the upper-atmosphere were possible in almost all TSSN events. In this way, meteorological parameters were sufficient for the formation and strengthening of the convective layer. In addition, the presence of directional wind shear and the observation of inversion layers restricting convective movements at higher levels instead of near the surface ensured that the moisture requirement, lifting mechanism, and unstable atmospheric conditions required for the formation of TS were provided. The CAPE values were very low for winter TSs. Total Total Index and TQ Index produced the most appropriate results for TSSN prediction.