Mudslides can take out a mountainside in seconds.
Rain in California can be deadly. During a heavy rain season, flooding can quickly turn into a mudslide that can bury a neighborhood in thick mud. Those who live in the hills of California must pay attention when officials order evacuations, as an avalanche of rocks and debris can sweep down a mountainside -- taking out everything in its path. Does this Spark an idea?
Causes
Mudslides occur when there is heavy rainfall, steep slopes and loose soil. These slopes may be "stable" when dry but when saturated with water, they turn into potential mudslides, capable of taking out trees, cars and even entire homes. Hills with a slope of more than 15 percent, which are common in California, are more likely to produce stronger, more powerful slides. Slopes without vegetation are at a great risk for slides because such slopes have no roots to bind the soil.
Costs
The average economic costs of mudslide damage in the United States are between $1 billion and $2 billion, as of 2011. In 1997 to 1998, El Niño related landslides in 10 San Francisco counties were assessed at more than $140 million. Added to these figures is the cost of lives, with 25 to 50 casualties a year directly related to mudslides.
Tips
While no one can predict exactly when a mudslide will occur, warning signs exist for people who live in mudslide-prone areas like California. During and after a heavy rain, look for where water is draining to see where a mudslide is more likely to occur. Look for trees that start to tilt, which is a sign of loose soil. Listen for loud rumbling noise that could indicate a slide is occurring in your area.
Planning
California has had devastating mudslides and will have more in the years to come. Knowing what areas are more likely to have a slide is an important thing for future residents of California or permanent residents. Contact the United States Geology Survey for detailed maps on where landslides have occurred and where such slides are most likely to occur.
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