A landslide in Ketchikan, Alaska, blocked roads and damaged houses, killing at least one person, officials said.
Incident Summary
A landslide in Ketchikan occurred on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at around 4 p.m., resulting in one death and several injuries. Roads were blocked, and homes were damaged, prompting mandatory evacuations.
Authorities' Response
Alaska State Troopers and local authorities initiated search and rescue operations. Ketchikan's Mayor Dave Kiffer stated that he had never seen a slide of this magnitude in his 65 years in the area.
Emergency Declarations
Governor Mike Dunleavy issued an Alaska Disaster Emergency Declaration. Additionally, joint declarations were made by borough and city mayors.
Rainfall Update
The landslide followed a period of significant rainfall, with Ketchikan receiving over 2.5 inches in the preceding weekend, contributing to the instability of the hillsides.
Future Precautions
Officials warned of ongoing risks as the slide area remains unstable, and plans were made for state and local geologists to assess possible secondary slides.
