Geologic Hazard Risk Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Geologic Hazard Risk - Research Paper Example The most notable area that is likely to suffer from landslide is on the east side of the slough along lake Washington, Boulevard. Most Geological Investigations to date have focused almost extensively on this area (Elliot et al., 53). Different investigations and aerial photographs document extensive pavement damage in these areas; these evidences can only suggest that Washington is likely to suffer Landslides in the future. Aerial Photographs from 1936 to 2004 indicates significant dredging along the lake Washington shoreline and within the Mercer Slough channel proving the possibility of landslides in the future. The past evidences of landslides in Sherwood Boulevard also provide concrete evidence of potential landslides in the future. For instance, in January 2009, Washington state residents discovered a landslide completely blocking South West Sherwood Boulevard in Washington Park. This landslide was approximately forty cubic yards in length and approximately two feet deep. Actually, the landslide not only covered Sherwood road completely, but also blocked normal rain drainage in the area. Besides landslide, other types of geological hazards that can affect Washington are earthquakes (Lynn, 201). Recently, a small earthquake was reported in Southwest Washington in Wednesday. Though there were not immediate reports of injuries and damages, this earthquake proved that if no action is taken soon, then Southwest Washington might suffer another earthquake in future. According to a geological investigation initiated by the Washington State Department of Transport, there are several potential causes of landslides and earthquakes in Washington (Washington Department of Transportation news release and news report, 133). Different areas such as mercer flow have been subjected to intensive studies and various potential factors for earthquake occurrence have been identified. This investigation found out that the major