The development of real-time early warning systems is crucial for mitigating landslide risks. Although internet coverage is extensive in urban areas, it often fails to reach remote locations such as mountainous regions. The low-power wide area (LPWA) communication network offers a viable alternative for transmitting data from landslide early warning system (LEWS) sensors to a central server. To develop an accurate and reliable LEWS, it is essential to establish appropriate thresholds for warning triggers. This study conducted a series of laboratory experiments on slope models, both with and without vertical cracks. The models were subjected to varying rainfall intensities to investigate the mechanisms of slope failure. The objective of this paper was to evaluate a cost-effective and sustainable LEWS based on internet of things using the Internet (WiFi) and LPWA for data transmission, and to monitor slope vulnerability. During the experiments, volumetric water content, pore water pressure, and tilt angle were measured. Thresholds for critical volumetric water content, pore water pressure rate, and tilt rate were proposed to define warning stages. The results contribute to enhancing the advancement of early warning systems, which are crucial for mitigating the risks associated with landslides.

As a novel technology for slope protection, living stumps have demonstrated the ability to significantly enhance slope stability. This study aims to investigate the mechanical properties of living-stump root systems and their reinforcement mechanisms on slopes through three-dimensional modeling tests. Using ABS materials, a 3D model of a living elm stump was created via 3D printing; this was followed by slope model testing. The reinforcement mechanisms of living stumps were examined through a combination of model testing and numerical simulation. The results reveal that the presence of living stumps in the lower and middle sections of a slope causes the maximum-shear-stress zone of the soil to shift deeper. The stress distribution around the living stump is notably improved owing to the lateral root system. Living stumps positioned in the lower part of the slope intersect the potential sliding surface, gradually transferring soil shear stress to the root system through root-soil interactions. Furthermore, the tap roots and lateral roots of living stumps form a robust spatial network that can collectively withstand soil shear stress, thereby enhancing slope stability.