Photogrammetry and satellite Earth observation techniques for sinkhole monitoring: application in the Vepe plain (Latera - Italy)

Abstract

Sinkholes pose a serious risk to human activities, so it is essential to study their formation and behaviour. This study presents the results of a two-year monitoring conducted on a sinkhole in the Vepe plain (Latera, Italy). Monitoring began approximately 48 hours after the formation of the sinkhole, using UAV photogrammetry and satellite observation of the Earth, with reference to the ecosystem peculiarities of the area. Various HVSR tests were performed, focusing on the analysis of the directionality detected and dependent on the natural context. Finally, the water levels in the sinkhole were compared with rainfall data to investigate the relationship with the variation in water levels. The aim was to obtain more information on deep piping, a probable phenomenon behind sinkhole formation, and to develop monitoring protocols adaptable to different contexts.