Overall
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Landslides and debris flow
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Health and safety guidelines
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Landslide and Mudslide
In a landslide, masses of rock, earth or debris move down a
slope. They are activated by storms, earthquakes, volcanic
eruptions, fires and human modification of land.
Debris and mud flows are rivers of rock, earth and other
debris saturated with water. They develop when water rapidly
accumulates in the ground, during heavy rainfall or rapid
snowmelt, changing the earth into a flowing river of mud.
They flow rapidly, striking with little or no warning at
avalanche speeds. They also can travel several miles from
their source, growing in size as they pick up trees,
boulders, cars and other materials.
Landslide problems can be caused by land mismanagement,
particularly in mountain, canyon and coastal regions.
Land-use zoning, professional inspections and proper design
can minimize many landslide, mudflow and debris flow
problems.
Take Protective Measures
What can I do Before a Landslide or Debris Flow?
Do not build near steep slopes, close to mountain edges,
near drainage ways or natural erosion valleys
Get a ground assessment of your property
Consult an appropriate professional expert for advice on
corrective measures
Minimize home hazards by having flexible pipe fittings
professionally installed to avoid gas or water leaks, as
flexible fittings are more resistant to breakage
Recognize Landslide Warning Signs
Changes occur in your landscape such as patterns of
storm-water drainage on slopes, land movement, small slides,
flows or progressively leaning trees
Doors or windows stick or jam for the first time
New cracks appear in plaster, tile, brick or foundations
Outside walls, walks or stairs begin pulling away from the
building
Slowly developing, widening cracks appear on the ground or
on paved areas such as streets or driveways
Bulging ground appears at the base of a slope
Water breaks through the ground surface in new locations
Fences, retaining walls, utility poles or trees tilt or move
A faint rumbling sound that increases in volume is
noticeable as the landslide nears
The ground slopes downward in one direction and may begin
shifting in that direction
Unusual sounds might indicate moving debris
Collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks and other indications
of possible debris flow can be seen when
What do I do During a Landslide or Debris Flow?
Move away from the path of a landslide or debris flow as
quickly as possible
Curl into a tight ball and protect your head if escape is
not possible
What do I do After a Landslide or Debris Flow?
Stay away from the slide area
Check for injured and trapped persons near the slide,
without entering the direct slide area
Watch for associated dangers such as broken electrical,
water, gas, sewage lines and damaged roadways and railways
Replant damaged ground as soon as possible since erosion
caused by loss of ground cover can lead to flash flooding
and additional landslides in the near future
Seek advice from an expert for evaluating landslide hazards
or designing corrective techniques to reduce landslide risk
Follow the instructions for returning home.
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