TXT-tool 2.886-1.3: Debris Flow Monitoring Guidelines

Abstract

In order to document debris flow events on-site, the Soil and Water Conservation Bureau (SWCB), Council of Agriculture, Taiwan, has developed a debris flow monitoring system since 2002. This paper introduces the technology of debris flow monitoring stations established by SWCB in Taiwan. At each on-site monitoring station, several observation instruments, including rain gauges, CCD cameras, wire sensors, geophones, and water level meters were installed to collect dynamic debris flow information that can be used as reference data for countermeasures for debris flow disaster mitigation. In addition, several meteorological sensors have also been adapted recently to record the effects of long-term climate change on the hill country of Taiwan. The framework of the debris flow monitoring system consists of monitoring sensors, instrumental cabin (vehicle platform for a mobile station), transmission systems and a web-based display system. An example of monitoring during Typhoon Kalmaegi in July 16-18, 2008 is provided in this guideline. On-site observation data, including the rainfall patterns, video images, wire sensor ruptures and ground vibrations caused by debris flows, are analyzed in detail.