Warning Signs Of Mud/debris Flow In Florida

By Author: ServiceMaster by PWF Pinellas
Total Articles: 41
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Mud or debris flows often result from extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall and high water levels. These events have the potential to deliver devastating damage to property, livestock and human life. When it comes to unexpected disasters such as mud or debris flows, it is crucial to be able to tell if they are about to happen.

ServiceMaster by PWF Pinellas has compiled the warnings signs of mud or debris flow below.

Warning Signs of Mud/Debris Flow

• If you are near a wildfire burn area, stay tuned to the latest updates and listen to the weather forecast as this might affect the spread of the fire. Landslides can be triggered by extreme fire conditions and mud flow by massive fire extermination.

• Listen for any unusual sounds or the sound of rushing water.

• Trees cracking and the sounds of boulders knocking together can indicate moving debris.

• Rumbling sounds that intensify as time goes by indicate a nearby landslide.

• Observe movements of fences, walls, streetlights and other poles, trees and boulders.

• Big boulders in an area indicate ...
... previous debris flow.

Warning Signs of Slow-Moving Landslides

• Inspect the surrounding landscape for changes, such as leaning trees and plants. Pay attention to storm-water drainage slopes or other areas where runoff water flows and converges.

• Ground movements during a rainstorm may be indicated by windows jamming or sticking for the first time.

• Inspect your home for tile, foundation, wall or brick cracks.

• Sidewalls, cement roads or stairs pulling away from an infrastructure indicate serious ground movement.

• Check for slow, widening cracks on the ground or pavements.

• Check for malfunctioning or broken underground utilities.

• Check for uneven ground especially on the base of a sloping area.

• Check for water breaks from the ground showing up in a new or different area.

• Observe the landscape and notice if there are tilting trees, utility poles and walls.

• Check for shifts in the direction of ground slopes.

• A sudden decrease in water flow or a change from clear to muddy water could also indicate an approaching mud or debris flow.

How to Protect Yourself from Mud or Debris Flows

• During a landslide or an extreme weather phenomenon, stay tuned to the latest news updates. Having a battery-powered radio could prove handy.

• Follow warnings and evacuation notices made by the local government. You can always get water damage restoration services in Clearwater after, but you cannot replace a lost life.

• Stay alert during storms especially if you are located in a landslide-prone area. Sleeping the night out despite warning signs may lead to worse scenarios.

• Never cross a road if there is mud or debris flow. You never know when it will swell.

• If you are stuck in the path of a landslide, try to go uphill as soon as possible.

• Avoid low-lying areas.

Schedule an Appointment for Property Damage Restoration in Pinellas County, Florida

Don't know what to do next? We do. ServiceMaster by PWF Pinellas is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (813) 295-7797. We service residential and commercial properties in Oldsmar, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Pinellas Park, Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Safety Harbor, Florida and surrounding areas.

• Over 30 years of experience
• IICRC-certified firm
• Insurance capabilities
• Advanced technology, techniques and equipment
• Fast response time

Contact us today to find out how our qualified flood damage repair services can help you in the aftermath of a flood. You may connect with us online to schedule an appointment.

ServiceMaster Restoration Pinellas offers emergency damage restoration and cleaning services in St. Augustine, Florida, and its surrounding areas and counties.