Global trend and conceptual structure of mudflow hazard research: a bibliometric analysis using Biblioshiny

Mudflows are highly destructive geohazards that pose serious risks to human life, infrastructure, and ecosystems. The frequency of these events is growing due to climate change, deforestation, and natural triggers like heavy rainfall, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. This bibliometric study analyzes the global research trends regarding mudflow using data from the Scopus database between 1928 and 2024, assessing 393 publications through Biblioshiny, VOSviewer, and MapChart. Results show a steep increase in mudflow research, especially after 1965, which coincides with the time of technological development and increasing environmental awareness. The first two most prolific countries are the United States and China, followed by other European and Asian countries. Predictive modeling, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and remote sensing have been highly instrumental in the study of mudflows because they provide better risk assessment, monitoring, and mitigation. The research highlights the growing role of global collaboration and advanced technologies like machine learning and geospatial analysis in improving mudflow prediction and disaster readiness. Researchers have developed complex simulation models for a better understanding of flow dynamics and improving early warning systems. These approaches enable more effective policy decisions and disaster management plans to be formed. The growing body of literature underscores the urgent need for truly interdisciplinary research that integrates geological, hydrological, climatic, and geospatial approaches to achieve more effective mitigation of mudflow hazards. This study highlights the need to combine modern technology with traditional methods to better prepare for future disasters. The findings, therefore, provide important insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to contribute to sustainable development and improved disaster preparedness in mudflow-prone areas.