Landslides and avalanches occur when masses of rock, earth, debris or snow move down a slope. They can be very small or massively large and can move slowly or at exceedingly high speeds.
Many landslides have been occurring repeatedly in the same areas since prehistoric times. Most are activated by storms or improper land management.
New landslides result from excess rain, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and various human activities.
Landslides and avalanches usually strike without warning.
Mud or debris-flows are rivers of rock, earth & debris saturated with water. When water saturates the ground rapidly either from heavy rain or snow melt, the water turns into a river of mud or slurry. It flows rapidly down slope and can strike with little or no warning. It grows in size and can pick up trees and cars as it increases in intensity.
Landslides occur in all 50 states. The states with the most severe potential problems are: California, West Virginia, Utah, Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio and Washington.
Warning signs of landslides and avalanches include:
Cracks or openings on hill-slopes, and snow.
Movement downhill of rock, soil and snow.
Angling of trees, utility poles, fences or walls.
Bulging ground appears at the base of a slope.
Water breaks through in new locations.
Sinkholes occur when groundwater dissolves vulnerable surfaces such as limestone, causing the surface of the ground to collapse due to lack of structural support. Sinkholes also can occur from improper mining management and operations. Recently a section of the Pennsylvania Turnpike was affected when a sinkhole occurred under a bridge support collapsing several section of bridge.
PREPAREDNESS
Have a Family Disaster Kit on hand. Be sure to discuss the potential threat and it is key in landslide/avalanche prone areas that you have at LEAST two evacuation routes since routes may become blocked by falling debris.
In case the family is separated, in any emergency, have a pre-planned meeting place for getting back together. You can also have an out-of-state friend or relative act as a contact point. After a disaster, have everyone contact that person and they can relay information, etc.
DURING THE DISASTER
If you're inside a building:
Stay inside.
Take cover under a desk or other sturdy furniture.
If you're outdoors:
Try to get out of the path of the landslide or debris-flow.
Proceed to the nearest high ground AWAY from the direction of the flow.
Run for the nearest shelter including buildings, groupings of trees or rocks.
If you are unable to escape, in the case of a landslide or avalanche, curl up in a ball and protect your head and neck. If it's mud or debris flows that are river-like, try to float and keep your head above water. Find a large piece or debris or log and hang on.
AFTER THE DISASTER
Stay away from the slide area as there may be additional danger from further slides or flows.
Check for injured or trapped victims and give first aid if you're trained.
Check on neighbors, especially elderly or special needs victims.
Listen to radio or television for emergency information.
Flooding can occur after a mudflow or landslide.
Check for damaged utility lines, building foundations and surrounding damage.
Replant damaged areas as soon as possible since erosion can cause addition flooding and slides.
Have the area inspected by geo-technical experts to evaluate the area for additional risks.
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