Landslides
Landslide is a general term for mass movement. It implies a gradual movement rather than the more sudden movement of an avalanche.
Landslides constitute a major geologic hazard because they are widespread, and cause damages each year. Landslides pose serious threats to highways and structures that support fisheries, tourism, timber harvesting, mining, and energy production as well as general transportation. Landslides commonly occur with other major natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods that exacerbate relief and reconstruction efforts and expanded development and other land use has increased the incidence of landslide disasters.
Landslides are common throughout the Appalachian region and New England. Landslides also occur across the Great Plains and into the mountain areas of the western U.S. in weathered shales and other clay-rich rocks particularly where there are steep slopes, periodic heavy rains, and vegetation loss has occurred after wildfires. Earthquakes and volcanoes also cause landslides
The enormous damages from landslides can be reduced. The primary objective of the Landslide Hazards Program is to reduce long-term losses from these hazards by improving our understanding of the causes of ground failure and suggesting mitigation strategies.
Fact Sheet: Landslides and Mudflows
Landslide and mudflows usually strike without warning. The force of rocks, soil, or other debris moving down a slope can devastate anything in its path. Take the following steps to be ready.
BEFORE
Get a ground assessment of your property.
Your geologist or town planning department may have specific information on areas vulnerable to landsliding. Consult a professional geotechnical expert for opinions and advice on landslide problems and on corrective measures you can take.
Minimize home hazards.