GEOTECHNICAL HAZARDS IN THE VICINITY OF WILDFIRES

Following a wildfire, the likelihood of occurrence of landslides, erosion, floods and snow avalanches within or downslope of the burned area can increase. The degree of hazard increase depends on various factors including the burn area, vegetation burn severity, soil burn severity, development of water-repellent soil, slope attributes, local hydrology, and local geomorphic conditions. The trigger for an event is often a significant high intensity rainfall. Elevated landslide and flooding hazards are both short-term (3 to 5 years) and long-term (until full forest regeneration). Short-term hazards relate to soil burn severity, development of water-repellent soil layers, increased overland flows, and sediment bulking. Longer-term hazards relate to increased Equivalent Clearcut Areas (ECA’s) as a result of loss of overstory and possible effects of loss of tree root strength. (Springer Creek Fire Number 50372 - Post-Wildfire Analysis, 2007)

The following  links lead to more specific information regarding post wildfire hazards in the Regional district of Central Kootenay

Geothechnical Hazard maps – Houghton, Kuskonook, Kutetl

Sitkum Creek – Post 2007 Wildfires

Springer Creek - Post 2007 Wildfires

Kemp Creek - Post 2007 Wildfires

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