When it comes to rain in parched Southern California, preparedness is key. After years of inadequate rainfall, our dry hills can cause major mudslides when they are finally hit with heavy and/or prolonged rains. These fast-moving landslides can cause chaos on roadways and enormous property damage to homes and businesses.
Weathercasters are predicting rain this weekend as a storm system moves in over Southern California. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself and your family proactively, and what to do if a landslide occurs.
Before
- Build an emergency kit
- Make a family communications plan in case you are separated from your family members
- Talk to your insurance agent about debris flow coverage
- Get a ground assessment of your property
During
- Stay alert and awake during a heavy storm (many injuries and deaths occur when people are sleeping)
- Listen for unusual sounds that could indicate moving debris
- Move out of the path of a landslide as quickly as possible
After
- If you have been evacuated or feel that it is unsafe to remain in your home, go to a designated shelter in your area
- Stay away from a mudslide area, as there may be additional slides
- Watch for flooding following a mudslide
- Check your home’s foundation and the surrounding land for damage
- Contact an attorney at Schimmel & Parks, APLC
If your property has been damaged and you need to file a claim with your insurance company, turn to Schimmel & Parks, APLC. Our mudslide damage attorneys can help you coordinate the need for repairs, appraisals, and other damage mitigation measures after a mudslide or flood, while at the same time watching out for any potential legal issues that may arise from the damage. We can also help ensure that your claim is handled appropriately and can defend your claim if it is denied in bad faith.
Valencia, Stevenson Ranch, Palos Verdes, Malibu, and Anaheim Hills might be getting wet this weekend – be prepared and stay safe!