POTSDAM, Germany, Aug. 24 (UPI) -- The disruption and fracturing of rocks near earth's surface as the result of an earthquake momentarily heightens the risk of landslides.

In the wake of a severe earthquake, mountainous regions become up 20 times more likely to experience a landslide -- a risk that is exacerbated by heavy rains, but which fades over time as the landforms heal their fractures and stabilize.

The revelation sounds obvious, but geologists have for years tried to sort out how various factors affect the risk of landslide. It's no an easy task.α

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