ANCHORAGE, Alaska—A tragic landslide in the city of Ketchikan, Alaska, resulted in one fatality and three injuries, leading to a mandatory evacuation, authorities confirmed.
Following the 4 p.m. Sunday landslide, three individuals were rushed to Ketchikan Medical Center for treatment. The disaster caused significant damage to homes and infrastructure, as stated in a joint announcement by the Ketchikan Gateway Borough and City of Ketchikan.
Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy declared a state of emergency for Ketchikan, while Borough Mayor Rodney Dial and City Mayor Dave Kiffer issued separate emergency declarations.
“It is with deep sorrow that we report the loss of life, injuries, and destruction caused by the landslide in our city,” Mayor Dial expressed in the statement.
Mayor Kiffer added, “The loss of life is heartbreaking, and my thoughts are with those who have lost their homes.”
“In my 65 years in Ketchikan, I have never witnessed a landslide of this magnitude. The recent slides in the region indicate a larger issue that requires further investigation with the support of our State geologist,” Kiffer continued.
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Two of the injured individuals were admitted to the hospital, while one was treated and released. Authorities confirmed that all residents have been located and are safe.
The landslide caused damage to multiple homes, leading to the mandatory evacuation of residents on Third Avenue and nearby streets. A shelter has been established at Ketchikan High School for those affected, as per the borough and city officials.
A secondary landslide area was identified south of the initial incident, with crews on standby for any potential developments, the statement mentioned.
By 8:15 p.m., power had been restored to some areas affected by the landslide. However, certain areas will remain without power until the debris is cleared, and damaged power poles are replaced, according to the borough and city.
Various local and state agencies responded to the emergency in Ketchikan, a city located approximately 297 miles south of the state capital, Juneau.
A Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Response Specialist, along with personnel from the federal Department of Transportation, are slated to arrive in Ketchikan on Monday, as announced by Governor Dunleavy.
“I have instructed state agencies to provide all necessary resources and support for the ongoing response efforts,” Governor Dunleavy stated, emphasizing that the State Emergency Operations Center is actively aiding the city.
