Cliffwatch

Cliffwatch is an integrated monitoring system designed to observe cliff stability and coastal erosion to support safety, planning, and research. The system combines sensor networks, data analysis, and alert mechanisms to detect signs of rockfall, slope movement, or rapid erosion and to notify relevant authorities and the public.

Origin and development: The concept emerged in the early 2010s as a response to increasing cliff-related hazards along coastlines and urban cliff parks. Pilot programs were launched in several coastal municipalities, integrating geotechnical sensors with digital dashboards.

Technology and methods: Common components include tilt meters, crackmeters, inclinometers, GPS monitoring, microseismic sensors, and portable LiDAR or drone surveys. Data are streamed to a central platform with real-time analytics and machine-learning models that identify anomalous movement patterns. Alerts are delivered via text, email, or app notifications and can trigger on-site closures or evacuations.

Applications: Cliffwatch supports hazard assessment, maintenance planning, tourism safety, and research. It is used to monitor cliff faces adjacent to roads, railways, parks, and development projects, guiding decisions on access restrictions, wall reinforcements, or drainage improvements.

Limitations and governance: Effectiveness depends on sensor coverage, power supply, and communications. False positives or sensor gaps can reduce reliability. Ethical considerations include public access to data and the potential impact on local livelihoods.

Related topics include landslide monitoring, geotechnical instrumentation, and disaster risk reduction.