Studies of mudflows in the Bezengi gorge (Central Caucasus, Kabardino-Balkar Republic): dynamics, consequences

Abstract

There are presented the results of the study of mudflows in the upper reaches of the Bezengi gorge (the basin of the Cherek Bezengiysky river, above the rural settlement of Bezengi) where villages pose the greatest threat to the lives of people and economic objects. 12 watercourses with the highest frequency of mudslides were identified with a catchment area of which is 202.5 km². The most dangerous in terms of descending frequency and flow power are the Zhyrchy-Suu, Bekkam-Suu and Urel-Suu streams, mudflows from which regularly fill up the dirt road to the Bezengi alpine camp and hay fields. The results of field research data of the mudflows that came in 2011, 2012, 2015 and 2017 years on the Zhyrchy-Suu, Urel-Suu and Bekkam-Suu streams and a comparative characteristic with the data of mudflows descending the same streams on July 9, 2020 are given in the work. The tendency of activation of mudflow processes in this area is determined and recommendations are given for anti-mudflow protection of the road leading to the Bezengi alpine camp.