China Uses Satellite Remote Sensing for Gyirong Landslide Monitoring

China's Ministry of Emergency Management has deployed satellite remote sensing technology to enhance monitoring and analysis of debris flows and landslides that occurred in Gyirong County, Tibet. The method provides continuous and detailed insights into the disaster zone.

The system, operated by the National Center for Disaster Reduction, utilizes data from a series of satellites, including "Emergency Disaster Reduction" and "High Resolution" series. This allows for precise tracing of the debris flow origins, such as ice and rock collapses, by analyzing anomalies in river channels and mountain vegetation.

Furthermore, data from "Resource" and "Beijing-3" satellites are used to identify landslide-affected areas, locate potential barrier lakes, and assess downstream damages. The system continuously monitors changes in the area of these lakes and any overflow.

The debris flow event took place on August 26, 2026, at the Gyirong border crossing, resulting in significant casualties and missing persons. Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing in the affected region.