Final answer:
City-approved construction on slopes does not guarantee that homes are not vulnerable to landslides, as risk factors like soil saturation and geological instability are complex. Good engineering and land-use regulations can mitigate, but not eliminate, the risk. Ongoing assessment and safety measures remain crucial.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is not safe to assume that homes built on slopes are completely free from the risk of landslides, even if their construction has been allowed by a city. While geologic investigations, good engineering practices, and effective land-use management can reduce landslide hazards, the risk cannot be entirely eliminated. The possibility of landslides is influenced by a variety of factors, including soil saturation from heavy rains, tree root stability, over-steepened slopes from erosion, earthquake-induced stresses, volcanic activity, and the excess weight from structures or accumulated materials.
The tragic case of the Vajont Dam in Italy illustrates the consequences of ignoring known risks, such as landslide-prone areas. Therefore, city approval of construction does not guarantee safety, and ongoing assessment and appropriate measures are essential for reducing the vulnerability of homes on slopes to landslides.