USGS-landslides.20060106T211312 pgori@usgs.gov 20060106T211312.000Z Actual Alert Public en-US Geo Message from USGS Landslides Program Expected Moderate Possible USGS Landslides Program, Paula Gori USGS Issues Alert of Landslide Dangers Near Seattle, Washington The U.S. Geological Survey advises that wet soil conditions and continuing rainfall are likely to result in additional landslides during the next several days. Given the wet soil conditions, landslides are highly probable during intense rainfall or when rainfall amounts exceed one inch in 24 hours. Steep coastal bluffs and other steep hillsides are particularly susceptible to landslides under present conditions. Advice for residents in affected areas: Before the storm (1) Become familiar with the land around you. Learn whether landslides have occurred in your area. Slopes where landslides have occurred in the past are likely to experience them in the future. (2) Watch the patterns of storm-water drainage on slopes near your home, and note especially the places where runoff water converges, increasing flow over soil-covered slopes. Watch the hillsides around your home for any signs of land movement, such as small landslides or debris flows or progressively tilting trees. (3) Contact your local authorities to learn about the emergency-response and evacuation plans for your area and develop your own emergency plans for your family and business. During the storm: (1) Stay alert and stay awake. Many landslide fatalities occur when people are sleeping. Listen to a radio for warnings of intense rainfall. Be aware that intense short bursts of rain may be particularly dangerous, especially after longer periods of heavy rainfall and damp weather. (2) If you are in areas susceptible to landslides, consider leaving if it is safe to do so. Remember that driving during an intense storm can itself be hazardous. (3) Listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together. A trickle of flowing or falling mud or debris may precede larger flows. If you are near a stream or channel, be alert for any sudden increase or decrease in water flow and for a change from clear to muddy water. Such changes may indicate landslide activity upstream, so be prepared to move quickly. Don't delay. Save yourself, not your belongings. (4) Be especially alert when driving. Embankments along roadsides are particularly susceptible to landslides. Watch the road for collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks, and other indications of possible debris flows. Never drive across a flooded road. http://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/fs-0071-00/ Rex Baum 1-303-273-8610 Image file http://landslides.usgs.gov/monitoring/seattle/rtd/forecast.php Western parts of King, Snohomish and Pierce Counties, Washington