Application of the MHVSR Method for Determining the Location of Landslide Areas Before Geotechnical Project Proposal: A Case Study of Tortum Lake, Turkey

Abstract

Tortum Lake, in Turkey, which is a natural feature and a large landslide barrier lake, was formed due to a natural landslide disaster. In this context, areas with the potential to create landslides in Tortum Lake and the waterfall region are identified and displaced with zoning. Microtremor horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio method and seismic refraction studies were used, and by considering the results, the areas with high landslide potential were determined. It aims to choose an effective study area by determining the areas with high landslide capability and revealing the boundaries of the geotechnical project. Areas with high landslide potential were compared with those where landslides have happened, and it showed that this method can be used for determining sliding risk before it happens. Results showed that regions with low VS30, combined with the slope, create the potential for landslides. Afterward, when the map of ground amplification values obtained from the microtremor data was reviewed, it was found that the physical properties of areas with high ground amplification values would be the same as those of areas with low VS30 values. When these two maps are reviewed, it is observed that areas with low VS30 values and high ground amplification values are in the same locations as those with high sliding potential. The correct determination of the geotechnical project work area is important both to draw attention to the right area to be designed and to avoid wasting unnecessary time and money on unnecessary areas.