Sesuv

Sesuv is a term used in several South Slavic languages, including Croatian, Bosnian, Serbian, and Slovenian, to denote a landslide or mass wasting event. In geology, sesuv refers to the down-slope movement of rock, soil, or mixed debris under the influence of gravity. The term covers a range of phenomena from slow, creeping slip to rapid, catastrophic flows. Common forms include translational and rotational landslides, rockfalls, debris slides, and debris flows or mudflows. These processes can reshape terrain and disrupt infrastructure.

Landslides occur when gravitational forces exceed the strength of materials in a slope, often aided by external triggers. Key factors include steep or over-steepened slopes, weathering, fractured rock, high pore-water pressure from rainfall or snowmelt, seismic shaking, and human activities such as deforestation, mining, or construction. The interplay among geology, hydrology, and land use determines the likelihood, speed, and extent of movement. Some sesuvi are triggered by single events; many develop gradually as slopes weaken over time.

Impacts of sesuv include damage to roads, buildings, and utility networks, disruption of transportation, and sometimes loss of life. Hazard assessment relies on slope stability analyses, historical recurrence, rainfall thresholds, and early warning systems. Mitigation strategies emphasize drainage improvement, slope reinforcement, retaining structures, proper land-use planning, and monitoring of ground movement. Where possible, vegetation restoration and controlled drainage reduce pore-water pressures and stabilize slopes. Rapid response and risk communication are essential after a slide is detected.