Development of a rapid active layer detachment slide in the Fenghuoshan Mountains, Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

An active layer detachment slide (ALDS) in the interior portion of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) was investigated within 2 days of its formation on September 21, 2018. The ALDS developed on a relatively gentle slope (4.8 degrees to 9 degrees) at an elevation of 4,850 m above sea level (asl) and was about 145 m long and 45 m wide, with a headscarp 2.2-2.5 m high. Analyses of meteorological data and soil temperatures indicated that it was probably triggered by a record thaw depth which intersected a layer with high ice content at the base of the active layer and in the top of the permafrost. Based on the time window, the minimum downslope velocity of the main slide mass was about 20 m/h which is higher than previously reported values. The ALDS ran into the embankment of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway (QTR) but did not damage the railbed. However, extensive rehabilitation of the slope was needed subsequent to the failure to clear the slide mass and as minor headscarp recession and thaw settlement continued on the slope. In this work, we describe this feature and the most likely mechanisms of development.

Automated summary

An investigation of an active layer detachment slide (ALDS) on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) revealed that it was likely triggered by the intersection of a layer with high ice content and a thaw depth. The minimum downslope velocity of the main slide mass was approximately 20 m/h, and it collided with the embankment of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway (QTR).