What to Know About Mudslides and Landslides

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

Southern California land is highly susceptible to fires due to our scorching summers. The ground is left vulnerable after these natural disasters because the roots that once held everything together have burned, dissipating into the ground beneath. When the seasons change, rain arrives, falling down along with the leaves, but the places once engulfed by fire are on to the next disaster: mud and landslides! The water loosens up the burned roots and dirt, causing chunks of land to slide down hills at high speeds… the perfect recipe for serious damage.

Not only are previous wildfire areas vulnerable to landslides, but also places where construction has destroyed vegetation and where a mudslide has happened previously. Removing the vegetation on a slope compromises the natural stability of it, so if your property is near an area like any of these, develop an emergency plan for the event a mudslide does happen. You can do this by contacting your local authorities, they should have an evacuation procedure to keep you safe. SERVPRO may also provide your property with an Emergency Ready Plan. 

After a mudslide has affected your property, an array of damage is possible. Your home could be flooded, with water and/or dirt. The electric, water, gas and sewage lines of your property could be broken. Depending on the power of the mudslide, walls could be punched through and underground supports could be shifted or even broken.

To find out the damages your property has faced after a landslide, call a natural disaster damage restoration service like us, SERVPRO! Your property may need serious remediation and reconstruction, and we have the experience and certifications to help you with that. It is also wise to seek the advice of a geotechnical expert when in the reconstruction process to find out any ways to protect your property from a landslide in the future. Call our 24 hour emergency service line at (310) 320-2112 for any questions you may have abut our services regarding mud and landslides.