Analysis of a Slope Failure in Los Canales Road in Carolina Puerto Rico after the Tropical Storm Irene

Abstract

Abstract ⎯ Natural slopes are susceptible to instability due to different factors. This study investigates the factors that contributed to the Los Canales slope failure. The main factors that could contribute to the slope failure are slope saturation due to rainfall infiltrations as consequence of the tropical storm Irene and slope profile change due to cutting of the slope toe. The soil type and properties were determined through laboratory tests on a soil sample. A preliminary analysis using stability charts was performed to compute the factor of safety and locate the origin of the potential failure surface. The failure surface was assumed as circular due to a visual inspection of the slope failure. The limit equilibrium method was used with the computer software SLOPE/W to find the critical surface failure. This study intends to provide slope restoration considerations for the failed slope reducing the existing vulnerability in the site. Key Terms ⎯ Slope Restoration, Slope Saturation, Slope Toe Cutting, Stability Analysis.