Lateral Spread: From Rock to Soil Spreading

The main conceptual and terminological issues related to lateral spreading are presented and accompanied by a brief outline of the state-of-the-art on the topic. Then the geomorphic features related to the two main types of spreading (rock spreading and soil spreading) are illustrated, with reference to the geological conditions in which they take place, as well as to their causes and evolution. The role of monitoring and modelling is then considered as useful tools to better understand the mechanical behavior of unstable slopes affected by such processes. Finally, some considerations on the hazard and planning implications are provided.