Science Common Sense

1381 - What makes heavy rainfall and uneven slopes increase the threat of landslides?

Heavy rainfall and uneven slopes increase the threat of landslides because:

1. Water makes the ground heavy: When it rains a lot, the ground gets saturated with water, making it heavier. This can cause the ground to slide.
2. Water weakens the ground: Water can also make the roots of trees and plants weak, which helps hold the ground in place.
3. Steep slopes are unstable: Uneven slopes are like big hills. When it rains, the water flows down these slopes and can wash away the soil, making the slope even more unstable.

Think of it like when you're on a slippery slide - it's easy to slide down. Heavy rainfall and uneven slopes make the ground slippery, so it's more likely to slide and become a landslide.