A landslide is the movement of rock and soil down a slope. Landslides can range in size from a single boulder in a rock fall to a very large avalanche of debris with huge quantities of rock and soil that can be spread across many kilometres.
Heavy rain, floods or earthquake shaking can cause a landslide. Human activity, such as removal of trees and vegetation, steep roadside cuttings or leaking water pipes can also cause landslides.
Before a landslide
Getting ready before a landslide will help reduce damage to your home and business and help you survive.
Find out from your council if there have been landslides in your area before and where they might occur again
Check for signs that the ground may be moving. These signs include:
- Sticking doors and window frames
- Gaps where frames are not fitting properly
- Decks and verandahs moving or tilting away from the rest of the house
- New cracks or bulges on the ground, road or footpath
- Leaning trees, retaining walls or fences
- Water springs, seeps or waterlogged ground in areas that are not usually wet
If you think a landslide is about to happen
You will need to know how to respond immediately:
1. Evacuate and take your Getaway Kit with you
2. Contact your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Office
3. Warn neighbours who might be affected
After a landslide
Do not return to a site that has been affected by a landslide until it has been properly inspected
Take photographs and notes for insurance purposes when it is safe to do so
Recent Activity Hipaua June 2009
Media releases in regard to Hipaua earthquake are available on the earthquake page.
Visit the Environment Waikato website for more information about landslides.