Guinsaugon rock avalanche of February 17, 2006: Dynamic analysis of landslide motion

The movement of the Guinsaugon rock avalanche was analysed using the dynamic model DAN3D. The model is based on the solution of integrated three-dimensional equations of motion in a Lagrangian meshless framework, using Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics methodology. Following previous experience with large rock avalanches, the slide material was modeled with the two-parameter Voellmy Rheology, containing frictional and velocity-dependent terms. Reasonable agreement with the observed slide behaviour was obtained with a fairly standard set of input parameters, used successfully in previous analyses of rock avalanches. This shows that dynamic modeling has a potential to serve as a predictive tool for hazard assessments in the region. A parametric study is presented, examining the influence of input parameters and assumptions relating to possible entrainment of basal material from the slide path.