EOC Preparedness Notice

Good Evening,

This evening the EOC received a brief from the Geological team in town.  Based on the limited information gleaned and the fact that the area sits on an artesian aquifer that extends further east, there is concern about the entire area East of Piedad and the Cathedral View area.  The current weather system compounds the current situation which caused so much damage—snow followed by rain.  This is a 50 year storm.  The geological team has also identified similarities to the 2012 Picture Point slide.

We have chosen to warn people to be ready to evacuate.  Our decision is informed and has been reviewed by the DGGS and National Weather Service.

Cross your fingers we don’t need it.

Saturday PM Update - call EOC at 766-6445 for more information

We are expecting more heavy precipitation, with snow changing to rain, over the next 36 hours. Based
on weather forecast and geological information gathered to date, the area from Piedad east toward
Picture Point is an area of concern. It is advised that you be on alert for a potential evacuation. Pack
essential belongings and bedding and be prepared to evacuate quickly.

The Borough‐wide flash flood advisory means that previous landslide areas may grow, or new
landslides may occur. Please keep aware of any steep terrain above you and be vigilant for any changes
during this ongoing weather event.

The Beach Road and Cathedral View Rd/Piedad evacuations remain in effect.

We will be actively monitoring and gathering field data all night. You can help by also monitoring your
surroundings. Important conditions to monitor:
‐ Creek water that becomes more brown / dirty over time
‐ Pooling water on the ground
‐ Cracking drywall or shifting walls in homes
‐ Cracks in land or pavement/driveways
‐ Ground movement of any kind
‐ Trees tipping or falling over
‐ Overflowing wells
‐ Wet basements
‐ Clogged culverts
‐ Water and/or debris washing across roadways

What can you do?

• Listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together. Moving landslides are often compared to the sound and feel of a passing freight train.
• If you hear these sounds, getting out of the path of a landslide or debris flow is your best protection.
• Likewise, if you are near the beach and see unusual changes in water level or any nearby slope, move to higher ground in a direction away from any visible landslide movement.
• If escape is not possible, move to a second story room or to the downslope side of the house and curl into a tight ball and protect your head. Choose an area where you are not in danger of being pinned or crushed by furniture. In one‐story homes, moving up on top of furniture or countertops can protect you from suffocation or being swept away. Unfurnished areas, such as closets, interior hallways, or bathrooms may provide additional protection.
• Opening downhill doors and windows may help rushing debris flow through the house, thus reducing the buildup of debris which can lead to burial, suffocation, or ripping apart the structure.

Stay alert for updates. For questions and reporting overnight, call the EOC at 766‐6445.