CALIBRATING A 2D ROCKFALL MODEL USING VIDEO FOOTAGE TO REEVALUATE ROCKFALL HAZARD IN POST EARTHQUAKE CHRISTCHURCH

2-Dimensional rockfall modeling can help reshape earthquake prone areas for safe redevelopment by simulating rockfall patterns for future shaking events. Since rockfall is nearly unpredictable, 2D programs like RocFall use statistical analysis to model hypothetical run out distances, bounce heights, and velocities of falling boulders for different seismic scenarios. In this study, we looked at rockfall hazard in the Port Hills of Christchurch, New Zealand, and found that these 2D models can be effectively calibrated using video footage to compare the model with real rockfall to ensure accurate model parameters. We also deduced that even the most accurate 2D model has limited capability to model seismically induced rockfall because in only using two dimensions, it cannot fully model the dynamic process of these types of rockfall events. That being said, this calibration technique produces the most effective 2D model possible.