Devastating Landslide in Ketchikan, Alaska Claims One Life and Injures Three
An unfortunate landslide in the city of Ketchikan located in Alaska claimed one life and injured three others, triggering mandatory evacuations and a state-level emergency declaration. The incident transpired around 4 p.m. on Sunday, causing severe damage to homes and infrastructure alike.
Immediate Response and Medical Assistance
Following the catastrophic incident, three injured individuals were transported to the local medical center. Two victims have now been admitted to the hospital while one has been treated and released. The official statement released by the city and local borough authorities has confirmed that all other individuals have been accounted for at this time.
Unprecedented Landslide Causes Widespread Damage
The landslide, unprecedented in its magnitude, caused damage to multiple homes and prompted the enforcement of a mandatory evacuation for residents of Third Avenue and nearby streets. A temporary shelter has been established at Ketchikan High School to aid displaced residents. Further, a secondary landslide area to the south of the original slide location has been identified, with crews on standby to manage the situation.
Power Restoration and Repair Efforts
By 8:15 p.m. on Sunday, power was successfully restored to some of the affected areas. Other areas lacking power are to remain so while the landslide debris is cleared and broken power poles are replaced. The joint statement from the Ketchikan Gateway Borough and the City of Ketchikan elaborates on the ongoing efforts.
Emergency Declarations and Government Aid
Following the calamity, Alaska’s Governor, Mike Dunleavy, promptly declared an emergency for Ketchikan. The Borough Mayor, Rodney Dial, and City Mayor, Dave Kiffer, issued separate emergency declarations. Expressing their distress, both mayors called the loss of life “heartbreaking”. In his statement, Kiffer noted the need for increased understanding and management of these geologic occurrences with the support of the State geologist.
State, Federal and Local Assistance
Various local and state agencies are responding to the landslide in Ketchikan, located about 297 miles south of Juneau, the state capital. Personnel from the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Response along with federal Department of Transportation personnel are scheduled to travel to the site on Monday. In order to aid the necessary response actions, Governor Dunleavy has directed state agencies to make available all resources and staff for the response effort. The State Emergency Operations Center is also rendering assistance to the city.
Community Impact and Recovery Efforts
The landslide has left a lasting impact on the Ketchikan community, both physically and emotionally. As the local authorities and the state government join forces to restore normalcy, they continue to encourage community members and other Alaskans to offer their support – to help the affected families, rebuild lost homes, and mend a shaken community.
