At least three dead after landslide in Alaska

Landslide tragedy in Alaska claims at least three lives, leaves others missing

A devastating landslide in a remote region of Alaska has claimed the lives of at least three individuals, with three more, including two minors, still unaccounted for. According to information sourced from NBC, authorities reported the incident, occurring on Monday evening near Wrangell, an island town in south-east Alaska, following heavy rainfall.

The initial search revealed the demise of a young girl, as per NBC's account of Austin McDaniel, spokesperson for the Department of Public Safety. Three homes were hit during the landslide, as McDaniel mentioned. By Tuesday, a drone identified two recovered adult bodies, with the Ministry confirming the sighting, according to the broadcaster. Furthermore, a miraculous rescue led to the discovery of a woman in a stable condition. Among the missing are two teenagers.

Geologists warn of heightened landslide risks in south-east Alaska, given the mountainous terrain and the dual impact of heavy rain and melting snow. Barrett Salisbury, a geologist from the local Department of the Environment, explained the increased vulnerability to weather-related emergencies such as landslides.

Aside from the base article, here are some enriching data points to consider:

1. Looser Material: The soil where the landslide occurred revealed an unusually loose composition, sitting atop glacial sediment that functions as a barrier against water flow. The wet conditions stimulated this loose material, triggering the massive slide.
2. Muskegs on Ridgetop: Muskegs situated atop crests might have contributed to the landslide's spread, potentially funneling water flow into areas with loose material, increasing the landslide's danger.
3. Storm Conditions: The wrath of an atmospheric river – a storm characterized by prolonged periods of heavy rain – provoked the landslide by mobilizing the unstable soil material on the slope.

Besides, the recent landslide in Wrangell cost six lives and left numerous homes in ruin. The affected community continues to grapple with the aftermath, attempting to comprehend the contributing factors and strategize methods to prevent future catastrophic landslides [2][3]. Moreover, FEMA has provided relief aid to the locals, including financial assistance for home repair and temporary housing options [5].