Insights From the Particle Impact Model Into the High‐Frequency Seismic Signature of Debris Flows

Debris flows induce seismic ground unrest detectable over large distances. However, recent theoretical description of debris-flow seismograms has yet to be implemented in alarm systems. Here, we test the implications a particle impact model for detection and warning using data. We analyze 14 debris at Illgraben, Switzerland, instantaneous weight measurements, network video footage. A novel approach simulate wave propagation estimates both vertical horizontal forces on ground. Scaling between forces, weight, sizes suggests that data identify destructive with boulders. Impact force spectra change bed topography increase during flow events, but decrease smaller events. This can explained known conveyor mechanism concentrating boulders front. Our results highlight opportunities use research warning. Plain Language Summary are muddy mixtures water, sand, boulders, which move down steep mountain creeks an uncontrolled way. They major threat human life, properties, infrastructure. Ground vibrations generated by contain information characteristics difficult measure conventional methods. these complex challenging understand so scientists struggle them quantitative studies. Here treat interaction as many particles randomly bouncing off channel bed. thus such particle/ground impacts Switzerland. show particle/ correlate flow. For small along path. In contrast, large-volume flows, gradually increase. is related sediment erosion deposition showing how characterize flows.