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Landslides, Mudslides, Debris Flow
Landslides, Mudslides, Debris Flows

Our mountainous terrain has many steep drainages which, when super-saturated, are prone to mudslides, landslides, debris collection and wash-outs. More intense storm events are projected with a changing climate, and could cross a critical threshold that will lead to more frequent events of this kind. Development activities on unstable slopes must be done with care to avoid increasing instability.

Prevention

To prevent impacts from landslides, consider the following questions:

  • Do I live along a ravine or natural drainage area?
  • Are the culverts clear and able to pass water and other materials if necessary?
  • Even if I don’t live below a steep slope, do I rely on power lines or roads that are in these susceptible areas?
  • Could my property be putting a downslope neighbor at risk?
  • Do I have an emergency kit or supplies in case I am cut off for a few days?
Leave The Area Immediately If You Observe The Following:
  • A faint rumbling sound that increases in volume
  • Unusual sounds, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together
  • If you are caught in a landslide with no option to evacuate, curl in a tight ball and protect your head and neck
Take These Initial Steps After A Landslide To Ensure Your Safety:
  • When you are safe, report the situation by calling 9-1-1
  • Stay away from the slide area as there could be subsequent slides
  • Listen to local radio or television stations for the latest emergency information
  • Watch for flooding, which may occur after a landslide or debris flow
Current Burning Permissions
Open burning—or burning outdoors—is allowed when the wildfire risk is low and can be a useful tool when conducted responsibly. Open burning includes Category 1 campfire, Category 2 and Category 3 open fire.
CATEGORY 3
CATEGORY 2
CATERGORY 1 CAMPFIRE
FIRE BAN
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Regional Water Use Restrictions
During drought conditions, your water system operator may introduce water use restrictions to conserve limited water supplies. There are four stages of water restrictions which are coordinated across the Cowichan Valley. Local conditions may sometimes require a higher stage of water restrictions on certain systems.
No Restrictions
Stage 1 Restrictions
Stage 2 Restrictions
Stage 3 Restrictions
Stage 4 Restrictions
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