Abstract
Detailed research of superficial deposits below the northern peak of Huascaran (Cordillera Blanca) provides new information on the limits of a paleo-avalanche originating from this mountain. Geomorphological mapping of the sediments identified glacial deposits, deposits from historical rock-debris avalanches and huge boulders from a paleo-avalanche. Schmidt Hammer rock-hardness tests were used to distinguish between the several generations of rock-debris avalanches, but largely failed to distinguish between the much older moraine and the paleo-avalanche sediments. Thus, only the field geomorphological mapping proved to be reliable for identifying the limits of the paleo-avalanche. The limits identified as granite boulders deposited over volcanic rocks were found to extend 30 m further up the opposite valley slope than previously had been mapped. This larger extent implies a greater volume and/or greater mobility for the prehistoric event.
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The work was funded by the grant no. MSM 0021620831 and project LC06024.
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Klimeš, J., Vilímek, V. & Omelka, M. Implications of geomorphological research for recent and prehistoric avalanches and related hazards at Huascaran, Peru. Nat Hazards 50, 193–209 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-008-9330-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-008-9330-7