READINESS IS A PRACTICE. START HERE.INDEPENDENT PREPAREDNESS // EST. 2026
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FIELD GUIDE 10 / Earth & coast

Landslides & debris flows

Steep slopes and recently burned land deserve special attention during heavy rain.

THE ESSENTIAL ACTION

If officials issue an evacuation order for debris-flow risk, leave early. Moving debris may arrive with little warning.

Before: make the plan

  1. Check your local hazard maps and ask local authorities about slopes near your home.
  2. Watch for new ground cracks, tilting trees, or changes in drainage; report concerns to the relevant authority.
  3. Plan routes that avoid stream channels and known landslide paths.

During: protect people

  1. Stay alert during intense rainfall. Some landslides occur without visible warning signs.
  2. Move away from a suspected slide path when safe. Do not cross flowing debris.
  3. Follow official evacuation and road-closure instructions.

After: recover carefully

  1. Keep away from the slide area; additional movement is possible.
  2. Seek professional assessment of damaged ground and structures before returning.

Published by the Beforetheoutage.com editorial desk.

Read the official guidance

Source links included 3 October 2026. Guidance must be adapted to your country, building, and personal circumstances.

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