A landslide in Ketchikan, Alaska, blocked roads and damaged houses, killing at least one person, officials said.
Three other people were transported to a nearby hospital, Kacie Paxton, a public information officer for the Ketchikan Gateway Borough, said in a statement. One of those people was later released, she said.
Forced mandatory evacuations were put in place after the landslide swept through several streets in Ketchikan at about 4 p.m. on Sunday, Paxton said. Alaska State Troopers and local authorities were undertaking search and rescue operations.
Gov. Mike Dunleavy issued an Alaska Disaster Emergency Declaration. A separate Joint Disaster Emergency Declaration was issued by Borough Mayor Rodney Dial and City of Ketchikan Mayor Dave Kiffer.
“In my 65 years in Ketchikan, I have never seen a slide of this magnitude,” Kiffer said in a statement. “With the slides we have seen across the region, there is clearly a region-wide issue that we need to try to understand with the support of our state geologist.”
He added, “The loss of life that we have encountered is heartbreaking, and my heart goes out to those who lost their homes.”
An evacuation was ordered for homes near the landslide, along Third Avenue, Second Avenue and Water Street, First Avenue, and White Cliff Avenue between Austin Street and Nadeau Street, officials said.
Photos released by the borough appeared to show a pile of trees and loose soil up against several hillside homes, at least one of which appeared to have been pushed into another home. Other photos appeared to show roads covered with debris, including trees.
“Our prayers are with the families, the injured, those recovering, and the community,” Sen. Dan Sullivan said on social media, later adding, “My team and I stand ready to help facilitate any federal assistance that may be necessary.”
Alaska officials have reported a tragic fatality in a landslide that has affected roads and homes in the state. The landslide occurred in a remote area near the town of Haines, located in the southeastern part of Alaska. The incident has caused significant damage to infrastructure and has left residents in the area devastated.
The landslide was triggered by heavy rainfall and unstable soil conditions, which are common factors in landslides in this region. The force of the landslide was so powerful that it swept away several homes and blocked roads, making it difficult for emergency responders to reach the affected area.
Unfortunately, one person has been confirmed dead as a result of the landslide. This loss of life is a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by natural disasters such as landslides, especially in areas with steep terrain and unstable soil conditions.
In addition to the loss of life, the landslide has also caused widespread destruction to homes and infrastructure in the area. Many residents have been displaced from their homes and are now facing uncertainty about their future. The road closures have also disrupted transportation in the region, making it difficult for residents to access essential services and for emergency responders to reach those in need.
Local officials are working tirelessly to assess the damage caused by the landslide and to provide support to those affected. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing to ensure that all residents are accounted for and to provide assistance to those in need. The community is coming together to support one another during this difficult time, demonstrating the resilience and strength of the people of Alaska.
As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, it is more important than ever for communities to be prepared for such events. Residents in landslide-prone areas should be aware of the risks and take precautions to protect themselves and their property. Local officials should also prioritize infrastructure improvements and emergency response planning to mitigate the impact of landslides and other natural disasters.
The tragic fatality in the landslide near Haines serves as a sobering reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for such events. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim, as well as all those affected by this devastating incident.
