Landslides and Land Usage in Manizales, Colombia

Effects of extreme weather due to the changing global climate are evidenced in significant direct and indirect costs around the world, with long lasting consequences for local communities and their environment. Increasing torrential rains and runoff have led to landslides and floods, which result in high fatalities in areas lacking proper land management.  Spatial analyses of databases maintained by the Environmental Information System of Colombia (SIAC) and the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology, and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) during the years 2006 to 2010 were used to determine potential study areas. Initial surveying and direct observations of landslide sites were carried out and analyzed with Geographic Information Systems (Google Earth Pro and ArcGIS). Additionally, identification of the study population and prospective interviewees took place.