A landslide occurs when soil, rocks, and organic materials move down-slope. Landslides can move slowly and cause damage gradually, or move quickly, destroying property and taking lives.
Landslides can be caused by heavy rain, rapid snow-melt, erosion, poor construction practices, freezing and thawing, earthquakes, and volcanic eruption.
Risk of a landslide on the North Shore: High
The mountains and wet coastal weather make the North Shore vulnerable to landslides.
According to the BC Ministry of Energy and Mines, landslides cause more deaths and property damage than other natural hazards in BC, including flooding and earthquakes.
How to prepare
Know the signs of a landslide and make an emergency plan in case you have to evacuate.
Listen and watch for:
- Unusual sounds, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together
- Sudden increases or decreases in water flow in streams and channels
- Water of nearby streams and channels changing from clear to muddy
What to do during a landslide
If think you are in danger, evacuate immediately. Inform neighbours if you can, and phone 9-1-1. Take pets with you.
If driving, watch for collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks, and other signs of a debris flow.
What to do during a landslide
Stay away from the slide area and watch for flooding. There may be additional slides.
Listen to local radio or television stations for the latest emergency information.
Be sure to:
- Report broken utility lines
- Check your home's foundation, chimney, and surrounding land for damage
- Replant damaged ground as soon as possible
Get notified of a landslide
- Sign up for emergency notifications
- EmergencyInfoBC alerts
