Precipitation impacts on earthen architecture for better implementation of cultural resource management in the US Southwest

Abstract Changing seasonal precipitation patterns prompted by climate change are likely causing increasing degradation of adobe architecture in the American Southwest. This deterioration includes surface erosion and catastrophic collapse. study examines impact changing rainfall on untreated walls to understand how damage occurs anticipate future impacts. To complete study, we constructed 20 test walls. Using a portable rain simulator, each wall was subjected two experiments: high-intensity simulations (rain intensity variable) low-intensity event number variable). Wall-degradation metrics (material loss, volume affected area, cavity depth) were calculated for using pre- post-simulation LiDAR scans. Internal moisture also measured with embedded volumetric water content sensors. In experiment, lines best-fit material loss area show that increases intensity, while depth remains consistent. Linear models post-hoc tests indicate is significantly different treatment. Furthermore, interior remained relatively dry demonstrating not strong predictor moisture. yielded statistically similar results. Greater infiltration occurred under long-duration conditions, greater surficial conditions. conclusion, weather regimes bringing more intense events arid suggests frequent high will cause Resource managers need adapt current management strategies account this change.