Check out our Sliding Puzzle!

 

Mudslide - Canadian example Mudslide - Japanese example Mudslides- China Mudslide at Machu Picchu- Peru

 What is a Mudslide?

A mudslide, otherwise known as a landslide, is really just a big flow of mud, earth, and debris rushing down a mountain or a hillside. Mudslides cause large amounts of damage but individually, they rarely cost a great number of lives. They occur daily, though most aren't large enough to be considered dangerous. Slides are caused by heavy rains or earthquakes, particularly when preceded by periods of drought or wildfires. A large earthquake can cause tens of thousands of mudslides of all sizes. During wildfires, large areas of forest are wiped out, killing roots that are vital for holding soil in place. When soil is loose, there is a great chance of mudslides occurring.

How to Tell if a Mudslide is Coming

Mudslides come suddenly, and often without warning. however, there are several signs you can look for. Some of these things are:

• suddenly rising creek levels
• patios and decks tilting or moving
• trees, walls, fences, or telephone/power lines leaning
• cracking, tilting, or shifting of foundations and concrete floors
• underground utilities, such as water lines, breaking or cracking
• roads and sidewalks sinking
• ground, streets, and sidewalks showing new cracks or strange bulges
• wet ground or sudden springs in areas which are usually dry
• visible gaps in walls near door stops or windowsills
• doors of windows jamming or sticking
• water levels in creeks suddenly lowering during or just after heavy rainfall