Today's mudslide that has temporarily closed East Pioneer between 33rd Street SE and SR 162 is a tangible reminder of what can happen when water (whether rain or melting snow) destabilizes hillsides. Here in Puyallup, the valley gives rise on our south to a hill, and that topography renders some of our landscape naturally susceptible to slides.
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources provides information on warning signs of a potential landslide. These include:
- Increased seep activity on a hillside, or newly saturated ground;
- Trees beginning to tilt on a hillside;
- Sticking windows or doors, or new/growing cracks in walls, ceilings or foundations; and
- The movement of soil away from structural foundations.
Report signs of a potential landslide to the City's Public Works Division at 253-841-5505. You can read more about landslide hazards and how to reduce your risk via the link below.