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Drones and AI Data: How Hong Kong Is Advancing Landslide Prevention

*Po Shan Road Catastrophic Landslide in 1972. Source: Hong Kong Slope Safety*

With growing attention to geotechnical resilience, new technologies are being introduced to improve slope safety. In Hong Kong, where landslides remain a persistent risk, recent efforts have centered around harnessing drone technology and artificial intelligence to monitor and mitigate slope instability with greater accuracy and efficiency.

Two pilot projects are currently trialing drone operations specifically for hillside and slope observation. One initiative focuses on collecting data across natural terrains with altitude restrictions, while another uses programmed drone flights to monitor the condition of engineered slopes. These aerial systems can operate autonomously and navigate difficult terrain, allowing for data collection in areas that may be challenging for manual inspections.

Equipped with advanced tools such as LiDAR sensors, thermal cameras, and AI algorithms, these drones perform a wide range of functions:

Monitor slope conditions in real time,
Track post-rainfall changes for rapid risk evaluation,
Assist in creating digital terrain models, and
Support emergency assessments in inaccessible areas.

A separate initiative is also underway to test a predictive model that analyzes historical data on rainfall, slope geometry, and previous incidents to issue early warnings. This system is designed to improve the timing and accuracy of alerts during the wet season.

Drone Operations on Big Sur Landslide. USGS

To further enhance slope safety, upgrades to the region’s mitigation strategy are planned. Annual targets now include an increase in slope reinforcements and more comprehensive inspections of both natural and artificial slopes. Maintenance records, rainfall trends, and incident histories are also being integrated into a centralized database to support long-term decision-making.

The use of airborne surveillance, predictive modelling, and integrated data systems is contributing to changes in how landslide prevention strategies are being developed and implemented.

Sources: chinadailyhk.com, scmp.com