Landslides are geological phenomena in which large masses of soil, rocks, or debris rapidly descend slopes, often triggered by natural or human-induced factors. These events can cause widespread destruction, endanger lives, and disrupt communities in landslide-prone areas.
According to a report, India has witnessed around 3 782 cases of landslides in the past few years. However, being equipped with essential guidelines for safety and quick medical facility for timely assistance can significantly reduce the risks associated with disasters.
Continue reading this blog to learn about the do’s and don’ts during a landslide and the crucial role of air ambulance facilities in such emergencies.
What Causes Landslides?
Landslides can occur in various regions but are particularly common in areas with steep slopes, loose soil, and heavy precipitation. Landslide-prone areas often include hilly regions, mountainous terrains, and areas with volcanic activity. The primary causes of landslides are:
- Prolonged or intense rainfall saturates the soil, reducing its stability and increasing the weight of the material on the slope. This excess weight and loss of friction often trigger landslides.
- Human-induced factors such as deforestation, mining, construction, and improper land use disturb the natural balance of a slope, making it susceptible to landslides.
- Vegetation helps stabilize the soil by holding it together with roots. Deforestation or other factors that remove vegetation increases the likelihood of landslides.
- Seismic activity causes significant ground shaking and disturbs the slope equilibrium, leading to landslides.
- Erosion by rivers at the base of a slope or coastal erosion by waves weaken the slope’s stability and trigger landslides.
- Once a landslide occurs, it creates a scar on the slope, altering its stability and making it more susceptible to future landslides.
Warning Signs of Landslides
Recognizing the warning signs of an impending landslide is crucial for early evacuation and safety. Here are some critical warning signs:
- Noticeable changes in the shape or contour of a slope, such as new cracks, bulges, or depressions, may indicate that the slope is unstable.
- If you observe soil, rocks, or debris starting to move or shift downhill, it can be a clear sign of an impending landslide.
- Trees, poles, or fences on the slope that appear to be leaning or tilting at unusual angles could indicate ground movement.
- An increased flow of water from springs, seeps, or stormwater runoff in areas where it was not previously observed might suggest soil saturation, which can lead to landslides.
- Cracks appearing on the ground, pavement, or roads, especially if curved or offset, might indicate slope instability.
- Unusual sounds, such as creaking, groaning, or rumbling, coming from the ground or the slope could signify potential movement.
- Changes in the flow pattern of nearby streams, such as sudden muddy water or changes in water levels, might suggest a landslide upstream.
- If doors or windows suddenly become difficult to open or close, it might indicate ground movement affecting the building’s structure.
- New cracks in walls, floors, or foundations of buildings, particularly on hillsides, could indicate slope instability.
Do’s During a Landslide
Knowing the “Do’s” during a landslide can enhance your chances of survival. Here are some essential tips to help stay safe during this disaster:
- Try to remain calm and be alert to any warning signs of a landslide, such as unusual sounds, ground movement, or cracking in the soil. Report the incidents to local authorities immediately.
- If you are indoors and suspect a landslide, quickly move to the upper floor of the building or the highest point of the property away from the potential landslide path.
- If you are in an area where landslides are occurring or anticipated, evacuate immediately to a safe location. Follow any evacuation orders issued by local authorities.
- If you are caught in a landslide while outdoors, try to move at a right angle (perpendicular) to the slope direction to get out of the landslide path.
- Avoid walking or driving on steep slopes during or after heavy rainfall or seismic activity, as they are more prone to landslides.
- Pay attention to emergency alerts and advisories issued by local authorities. Follow their instructions for safety.
- Have a basic emergency kit ready, including food, water, first aid supplies, a flashlight, and other essentials, in case you need shelter or evacuate.
- Keep yourself updated with your area’s latest weather forecasts and landslide warnings.
Don’ts During a Landslide
During a landslide, there are several actions you should avoid to ensure your safety. Here are the don’ts during a landslide:
- Don’t wait to confirm the situation if you suspect a landslide or receive an evacuation order. Take immediate action to move to a safe location.
- Avoid driving through areas known to be susceptible to landslides, especially during or after heavy rainfall.
- Do not enter river valleys or canyons during heavy rainfall. These areas are more susceptible to landslides during such conditions.
- If you have evacuated to a safe location, do not return to the affected area until authorities declare it safe.
- During emergencies like landslides, cellular networks might become overwhelmed or disrupted. Don’t solely rely on cell phones for communication. Have other means of communication available, such as a battery-powered radio.
- Avoid seeking shelter in buildings or structures that appear unstable or vulnerable to landslides.
- Always follow the guidance and instructions provided by local authorities, emergency services, and disaster management agencies.
How to Prepare for a Landslide in Landslide-Prone Areas
Preparing for a landslide in prone areas is critical for safety. Some essential tips to protect lives and property during such natural disasters are:
- Understand the landslide risk in your area. Research past landslide occurrences, consult local geological surveys, and talk to authorities to get information on the risks and vulnerable locations.
- Stay updated on weather forecasts, landslide warnings, and emergency alerts. Have a battery-powered weather radio or a reliable mobile app to receive notifications.
- Assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies like packaged food, water, first aid materials, flashlight, batteries, blankets, and important documents. Keep the kit in a readily accessible place.
- Determine safe areas on your property or nearby to seek shelter in a landslide. These areas should be away from potential landslide paths and at a higher elevation.
- Develop a family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, meeting points, and communication methods in case of a landslide. Practice the plan with all family members so everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
- Get involved in local community preparedness efforts and be aware of local emergency response plans and resources.
How to Get Quick Medical Assistance During a Landslide
During landslides, medical emergencies escalate rapidly, leading to injuries and potential health complications like heart attacks, demanding urgent medical attention. However, the destruction of roads and infrastructure hinders access to medical facilities.
Air ambulances play a crucial role in such critical situations by enabling prompt medical aid in affected areas. These air ambulances swiftly transport patients to nearby hospitals, ensuring timely and life-saving medical attention.
Flying Doctors India specializes in delivering swift medical commutes during emergencies. If you require air ambulance services for any medical transportation, contact us. We are here to assist you during times of urgent need.
