Landslides and Avalanches: Warning Signs and What to Do

Landslides and Avalanches

Landslides and avalanches give little warning and move faster than you can run. They follow heavy rain, rapid snowmelt, earthquakes or construction work, and in the Nordic countries also unstable quick clay. Survival depends on knowing the terrain before, reading the signs early and moving out of the path at once.

1. Before

Check official hazard maps for your address: landslide, quick clay, rockfall and avalanche zones. In Norway, use NVE and Varsom.
Follow landslide and avalanche warnings during heavy rain, thaw and after big snowfalls.
Learn the warning signs of a landslide: new cracks in the ground or walls, doors and windows that start to stick, leaning trees or poles, water appearing in new places, and a rumbling sound that grows.
Plan a way out that goes sideways, away from slopes and river valleys.
In winter terrain: read the avalanche forecast, never go alone, and carry a transceiver, probe and shovel that everyone knows how to use.

2. During

Landslide

If you see signs or hear rumbling, leave immediately. Do not stop to collect things.
Move to the side, out of the path, and to stable higher ground. Do not run downhill in the path of the slide.
If you cannot get out of a building, go to the highest floor, on the side away from the slope.
Warn neighbours and call the emergency number.

Avalanche

Try to move to the side of the avalanche. Let go of poles and heavy gear.
If you are caught, fight to stay near the surface. As the snow slows, make an air space in front of your face.
If a companion is buried, start searching at once and call for help. The first minutes are decisive.