Numerical Analysis of Rainfall Effects on Slope Stability

Abstract

The finite element analysis of transient water flow through unsaturated–saturated soils was used to investigate effects of hydraulic characteristics, initial relative degree of saturation, methods to consider boundary condition, and rainfall intensity and duration on water pressure in slopes. The finite element method with shear strength reduction technique was used to evaluate the stability of slopes under rainfall. The results of the finite element analysis indicated that the hydraulic characteristics, initial relative degree of saturation, methods to consider boundary condition, and rainfall intensity and duration had significant influence on the water pressure in slopes, and thus on the stability of slopes under rainfall. The good comparisons of the numerical results with statistical and observational results showed the ability of the finite element analysis to evaluate the stability of slopes under rainfall.