Utilization of satellite SAR Interferometry to Identify and Map Landslides in Sánchez Municipality, Dominican Republic

Abstract

The landscapes we see today are the result of constant changes during millions of years. Mass movement is one of the principal geomorphology process responsible for these changes and occurs in different scales around the world, causing disaster in populated areas. Sánchez is a municipality located in Samaná province, Dominican Republic, where continuous motion had created an atmosphere of uncertainness among the inhabitants, that observed day after day the deterioration of infrastructures, loss of agricultural capability and potential life-threatening situations. Slope instability has been increased by anthropogenic activity and triggers factors as: elimination of forest for coconut plantation, lack of proper wasted drainage and drinking water supply system, growth of community, change of construction material, meteorological phenomena and seismic events. This investigation aims to identify slope movement and map it, using SENTINEL-1 satellite SAR interferometry (InSAR). By applying multi-temporal techniques to a series of SENTINEL-1 scenes, it is possible to recognize a continuous surface deformation in the area. The results will help authorities to develop short and long-term risk management plans.