Landslide Devastates Ketchikan, Alaska, Claiming One Life and Causing Evacuations
Emergency Notice Issued as Further Slides Threaten Community
A significant landslide in southern Alaska on Sunday resulted in one fatality and left several individuals injured. Authorities in Ketchikan have issued evacuation orders for certain residents as they express concerns about the possibility of another slide occurring in the vicinity.
Damage Assessment Following the Landslide
The landslide struck around 4 p.m. on Sunday, adversely affecting multiple homes, businesses, and roadways in the coastal city of Ketchikan. Mayor Dave Kiffer described the event as unprecedented in his 65 years of living in the area: “In my 65 years in Ketchikan, I have never seen a slide of this magnitude. The loss of life that we have encountered is heartbreaking, and my heart goes out to those who lost their homes.”
Casualties and Evacuations
In addition to the single fatality, three people were hospitalized for their injuries, according to officials. While one individual was treated and subsequently released, the other two remain hospitalized. Thankfully, all other residents accounted for as safety measures were heightened in the disaster-impacted area.
The evacuation notice specifically affects residences on Third Avenue, Second Avenue, Walter Street, First Avenue, and White Cliff Avenue between Austin Street and Nadeau Street.
State Response and Emergency Resources
Gov. Mike Dunleavy declared a disaster emergency for Ketchikan, directing state agencies to provide necessary assistance. He expressed his condolences, stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with residents of Ketchikan tonight.” Emergency shelters have been set up at local facilities, with response teams prepared for any additional occurrences of landslides.
In a joint statement, mayors Kiffer and Rodney Dial encouraged the community to keep affected families in their thoughts and highlighted their appreciation for the first responders and volunteers stepping up during the crisis.
Impact on Infrastructure
The landslide resulted in widespread damage, causing trees to snap and power poles to topple as debris flooded the area. Local utility KPU Electric reported several outages, with crews working to restore service to many homes. Despite efforts, an unspecified number of power poles remained in dangerous conditions, complicating recovery efforts.
Ketchikan officials also noted traffic delays and road closures, reinforcing the importance of adhering to the evacuation guidance for public safety.
A Historic City Faces Uncertainty
Ketchikan, known as the salmon capital of the world, has a population of approximately 14,000 and is bordered by stunning landscapes along Alaska’s Inside Passage. As residents begin to assess the damage and recover from this natural disaster, the focus remains on ensuring safety and rebuilding the community.
