Massive landslides blocking rivers could trigger disaster chain effects.
Earthquakes can trigger landslides that block rivers, leading to chain disasters. Using advanced methods, researchers studied the Xiaojiaoqiao landslide and found that it went through four phases: triggered by an earthquake, sliding into the river, blocking it, and stabilizing. The stability of the landslide dam is generally good, but strong earthquakes could cause local collapses. The main risk is gradual erosion damage rather than sudden failure. Overall, the structure is stable, with low risk of piping failure or dam-breaking.