How to Prepare for Potential Mudslides

You can reduce the potential impacts of land movement by doing the following:

• Assume that burn areas and canyon, hillside, mountain and other steep areas are more likely to have landslides and mudslides.

• Be prepared well before storm conditions are present, and monitor for weather forecasts that predict substantial rainfall in a short amount of time.

  • More than three to four inches of rain per day, or ½-inch per hour, have been known to trigger mud and debris flows, but exact measurements may vary based on local conditions and circumstances 

• Clear a path for the debris. Always place protection to deflect debris, not to dam or stop it. Be prepared to sacrifice the use of portions of your property to achieve the greatest amount of protection.

• Work with adjacent affected property owners. Avoid altering drainage patterns that could worsen conditions for your neighbor.

• Debris will often enter a building through windows – board them up.

• Limit the height of plants near buildings to 18 inches.

• Use plants and bushes that are less likely to burn and keep them watered. This not only helps with landslides/mudslides, but is also helpful for fire safety.

• Inspect slopes for increases in cracks, holes and other changes. Get rid of litter and dead/dry vegetation.

• Consult with a soil engineer or an engineering geologist to minimize the potential impacts of landslides.