Abstract

This article summarizes the lessons learned from the evaluation of failed concrete utility poles in Puerto Rico as a consequence of Hurricane Maria. Teams were deployed between October 3^rd to 11^th 2017, to cover the west, northwest, south, and east of the island. The evaluation presents sample cases of the failed poles around the island but does not attempt to conduct an inventory. The Puerto Rico building code was being updated based on changes in the International Building Code and the effects of Hurricane Georges. However, many poles made from previous designs are still in service, and many of them failed as a consequence of design deficiencies and improper construction practices. Poles manufactured under the updated codes failed mostly due to foundation issues or structural overload from nearby vegetation impact and the failure of in-line poles, especially wood poles and pre-Georges concrete poles.

Abstract

This article presents an overview of landslide investigation in Puerto Rico from the time of Spanish control until the present.  In addition, a projection for future developments is offered.  The island’s tectonic and geographic situation combined with a history of intense agriculture practices yield a predisposition of landslide hazard.  Mass wasting manifests itself in several modalities with shallow soil failures being most common and deep bedrock slides being most destructive.  Movements can be provoked by seismic activity but are regularly triggered by high-intensity rainfall events associated with tropical cyclone systems. Advances in landslides science made during the latter 20^th century were made possible by earlier topographic and geologic mapping efforts by the United States Geologic Survey. In the 21^st century, instrumentation and monitoring endeavors have been made more effective with the use of emerging technologies.  In the near future, advanced real time systems and forecasting programs are possible, and the continued investigation of landslides as principal agents of erosion will lead to a more focused understanding of surficial processes over geologic time.  In a landscape faced with natural disasters, it is necessary to meet these phenomena with an adequate level of commitment in order to mold a more resilient society.