Threat of landslides grows as snow melts

The Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) has already recorded at least 70 landslides since January.

With flood watches and warnings in effect for Umatilla through at least tonight [Friday]... Allie Hansen with DOGAMI [DOG-ah-mee] says if you're enjoying nature this weekend... you need to keep your eyes and ears open.

"Have all your sense on high alert," says Ali Hansen, spokesperson for DOGAMI.  Some of the warning signals can sounds, some of the warnings can be visual."

Hansen says there are things that can warn you a landslide might be imminent-- if you're paying attention for them. Those warning signs include:

• A trickle of mud or rocks coming down a hillside
• Change in streams from clear to muddy water
• Water that slows to a trickle
• Rocks cracking together
• Trees rustling

If you hear the signs, don't wait to see if a landslide is happening-- leave right away.

DOGAMI has a landslide hazard map for Oregon that will show you the areas most susceptible to landslides.