Landslides and mudflows usually strike without warning. The force of rocks, soil, or other debris moving down a slope can devastate anything in its path.
Before a landslide
- Get a ground assessment of your property.
- Your county geologist or county planning department may have specific information on areas vulnerable to landslides. Consult a professional geotechnical expert for advice on corrective measures you can take.
Insurance
Mudflow is covered by flood insurance policies from the National Flood Insurance Program. Flood insurance can be purchased through a local insurance agency.
Minimize home hazards
- Plant ground cover on slopes to stabilize the land, and build retaining walls.
- Build channels or deflection walls to direct the flow around buildings.
- Remember: If you build walls to divert debris flow and the flow lands on a neighbor's property, you may be liable for damages.
Make evacuation plans
Plan at least two evacuation routes since roads may become blocked or closed.
Learn to recognize the landslide warning signs
- 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.
- Underground utility lines break.
- Bulging ground appears at the base of a slope.
- Water breaks through the ground surface.
- Fences, retaining walls, utility poles or trees tilt or move.
- You hear a faint rumbling sound that increases in volume as the landslide nears. The ground slopes downward in one specific direction and may begin shifting in that direction under your feet.
During a landslide:
If inside a building
- Stay inside.
- Take cover under a desk, table or other piece of sturdy furniture.
If outdoors
After a landslide
- Run to the nearest high ground in a direction away from the path.
- If rocks and other debris are approaching, run for the nearest shelter such as a group of trees or a building.
- If escape is not possible, curl into a tight ball and protect your head.
- Remember that flooding may occur after a mudflow or a landslide.
- Stay away from the slide area; there may be danger of additional slides.
- Check for injured and trapped persons near the slide area. Give first aid.
- Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance – infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities.
- Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for emergency information.
- Check for damaged utility lines. Report any damage to the utility company.
- Check the building foundation, chimney, and surrounding land for damage.
- Replant damaged ground as soon as possible. Erosion caused by loss of ground cover can lead to flash flooding.
Other languages (All files are PDF.)
DOH Pub 821-035
Revised - March 2008
Reviewed annually
This document was produced in cooperation with the Emergency Management Division of the Washington State Military Department.
