A deadly landslide in the Alaska city of Ketchikan resulted in one fatality and three injuries, prompting a mandatory evacuation and causing damage to homes and infrastructure. The Ketchikan Gateway Borough and City of Ketchikan issued a joint statement on Sunday confirming the tragic incident and the subsequent emergency declarations by Governor Mike Dunleavy, Borough Mayor Rodney Dial, and City Mayor Dave Kiffer. Dial expressed sorrow over the loss of life and the impact on the community, while Kiffer emphasized the magnitude of the landslide, urging state support to understand the wider issue.
The landslide in Ketchikan, which occurred around 4 p.m. on Sunday, led to three individuals being transported to Ketchikan Medical Center for treatment. Two victims were admitted to the hospital, and one was released after treatment. The affected area, particularly Third Avenue and surrounding streets, was placed under mandatory evacuation orders. A shelter was set up at Ketchikan High School for displaced residents, and efforts were made to address a potential secondary landslide south of the initial site. Power was partially restored by the evening, with ongoing work to clear debris and replace damaged infrastructure.
The aftermath of the landslide drew responses from various local and state agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Response Specialist, as well as federal Department of Transportation personnel. Governor Dunleavy mobilized state resources to support the emergency response and recovery efforts in Ketchikan, collaborating with the State Emergency Operations Center to provide assistance as needed. The severity of the landslide and its impact on the community highlighted the importance of thorough investigation and response coordination to address the broader geological risks in the region.
The tragic event in Ketchikan marked a somber moment for the community, with officials expressing condolences for the loss of life and the devastation caused by the landslide. Mayor Kiffer reflected on his long tenure in Ketchikan, noting the unprecedented nature of the landslide’s scale and urging a comprehensive understanding of the geological factors at play. The emergency declarations and subsequent response efforts underscored the need for preparedness in the face of natural disasters, emphasizing the significance of coordinated state and local response measures to mitigate risks and support affected residents.
As the investigation of the landslide continues, the community grapples with the aftermath of the disaster, focusing on recovery and rebuilding efforts. The collaborative response from state and local agencies highlights the importance of proactive emergency planning and resource allocation in response to such events. With ongoing support and assistance from governmental authorities and community members, Ketchikan aims to recover from the tragedy, address the geological risks, and ensure the safety and resilience of its residents in the face of natural disasters.
