Landslides

Landslides are downhill movements of rock, debris, or soil mass. The size of a landslide usually depends on the geology and the initial cause of the landslide. The best way to reduce losses is to Be Prepared for Landslide Events.

Landslides can be broken down into two categories: rapidly moving or debris flows, and (2) slow moving. Rapidly moving debris flows present the greatest risk to human life, and Debris Flow Warnings are issued when soil has been so saturated that they become unstable.

Weathering and the decomposition of geologic materials and human activity produces conditions conducive to landslides hazards in Clackamas County.

Homeowner policies normally do not provide coverage for landslide hazards. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides coverage for flooding, but landslide coverage is minimal.

Landslide Hazards in Oregon fact sheet (PDF) 2Mb