Three Dead Following Landslide in Alaska

Above - Wrangell, AK landslide from U.S. Coast Guard

There has been a major landslide in Alaska on Monday night at 8:51 PM local time (12:51 AM EST) that has resulting in a fatality along Zimovia Highway in the rural community of Wrangell. The town is located about 90 miles north of Ketchikan and 200 miles south of Juneau in far eastern Alaska on the Pacific Coast.

Three homes were in the path of the landslide and it is believed that residents were home at the time of the slide and could be trapped. Sadly, officials have already reported three fatalities with the search continuing for three more individuals missing. The Coast Guard found one survivor early in the search process.

The landslide occurred at mile markers 10-12 on Zimovia Highway blocking and closing the road. There are ongoing search and rescue missions at the 11-mile landslide site. Alaska State Troopers, United States Coast Guard, USFS, local contractors and DOT were working to clear debris and continue search and rescue efforts.

Heavy rainfall and strong winds were being felt in this part of Alaska on Monday night and continuing into Tuesday which could have contributed to the landslide occurrence. Over 2.5" of rain fell in the past 48 hours (Sunday AM - Tuesday AM local time).

According to officials though the search and rescue operations were temporarily paused on Tuesday morning (local time) for a state geologist to assess the situation and determine the additional risk. More landslides are possible and officials are encouraging residents to avoid traveling in the area.

We will continue to bring you updates on the situation as we get them.