Mudslides Explained
In short, mudslides are a type of landslide. According to the Centers for Disease Control , landslides “occur when masses of rock, earth, or debris move down a slope.” Therefore, mudslides (also known as debris flows) are “a common type of fast-moving landslide that tends to flow in channels.”
So, what causes mudslides in the first place? Well, for the dangerous sludge to make its way into your neighborhood, home, or business, there must be some kind of disruption in the stability of a slope. Oftentimes, mudslides occur after a storm when there is excessive moisture present, or other weather events like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, or droughts.
Furthermore, mudslides are apt to occur on steep slopes, particularly in areas where wildfires, land modification, or other human interference has disrupted the vegetation or caused disarray to the terrain and slopes. It’s not surprising mudslides often occur quickly, with little to no warning; a rapid accumulation of water-saturated, earth, rock, and other debris causes a “snowball effect,” especially after heavy rains.
How to Prepare for a Mudslide
The CDC recommends residents or business owners in mudslide-prone areas follow the below tips:
- Follow your local news and sign up for weather alerts, such as the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Weather Radio and EAS (Emergency Alert System) .
- Evacuate the area if necessary. Text SHELTER and your local zip code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the closest location.
- Consider installing flexible pipe fittings. This type of pipe has a higher chance of resisting breakage.
- Consider constructing channels or deflection walls around your property to divert the flow of mud.
How to Clean Your House After a Mudslide
While the following list is not all-encompassing, the CDC offers the following tips to assist in the cleanup after a mudslide or other severe storm:
- Wear proper equipment such as hardhats, goggles, an N95 mask, if necessary, waterproof boots, and work gloves to ensure your safety as you assess the damage and property.
- Avoid lifting material weighing in excess of 50 pounds, and always use two people, if possible, to move heavy or bulky items.
- Keep in mind floodwater can contain dangerous bacteria. If you have open sores or cuts that are liable for exposure, wash them consistently with soap and water, and apply an antibiotic ointment to discourage infection.
- Stay away from, and do not enter, damaged buildings until they have been certified by a building inspector or government authority, and declared safe.
- Beware of electrical equipment or items that may have gotten wet. If safely possible, use the main breaker or fuse to turn off power. Always opt for safety and call an electrician first, if you must enter standing water to handle electricity trouble.
Here to Help After Mudslides
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/landslides.html