A tragic landslide struck Ketchikan, Alaska, on Sunday, resulting in one death and injuring three others. The landslide, which occurred around 4 p.m., caused significant damage to homes and local infrastructure. In response, the Ketchikan Gateway Borough and the City of Ketchikan issued a joint statement, confirming that three people were taken to Ketchikan Medical Center for treatment. Two of the injured were admitted to the hospital, while the third person was treated and released.
In the aftermath of the landslide, Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy declared a state of emergency for the area. Local leaders, including Borough Mayor Rodney Dial and City Mayor Dave Kiffer, also declared an emergency.
Mayor Dial expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, noting the impact on the community. Mayor Kiffer, reflecting on his 65 years in Ketchikan, described the landslide as unprecedented in its severity and called for a better understanding of regional landslide risks with the help of state geologists.
Landslide in Ketchikan Results in One Death and Three Injuries with State of Emergency Declared
The landslide’s impact was widespread, affecting multiple homes and leading to a mandatory evacuation order for residents of Third Avenue and surrounding streets. To support those displaced by the disaster, a shelter was set up at Ketchikan High School. Authorities also identified a potential secondary landslide area nearby and prepared crews to respond if necessary.
Power outages were reported across several areas in Ketchikan following the landslide. By 8:15 p.m., power had been restored to some regions, but other areas remained without electricity due to the ongoing cleanup and repairs to damaged power poles. Local and state agencies quickly mobilized to address the situation, working together to restore services and ensure the safety of residents.
Looking ahead, a specialist from the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, along with personnel from the federal Department of Transportation, are scheduled to arrive in Ketchikan on Monday.
Governor Dunleavy emphasized the state’s commitment to supporting Ketchikan through this crisis, with state agencies instructed to provide all necessary resources and staff for the ongoing response and recovery efforts. The State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating these efforts to assist the affected community.
