Our mountainous terrain has many steep drainages which, when super-saturated, are prone to mudslides, landslides, debris collection and wash-outs. More intense storm events are projected with a changing climate, and could cross a critical threshold that will lead to more frequent events of this kind. Development activities on unstable slopes must be done with care to avoid increasing instability.
Ask Yourself:
- Do I live along a ravine or natural drainage area?
- Are the culverts clear and able to pass water and other materials if necessary?
- Even if I don’t live below a steep slope, do I rely on power lines or roads that are in these susceptible areas?
- Could my property be putting a downslope neighbor at risk?
- Do I have an emergency kit or supplies in case I am cut off for a few days?