Learn More | Landslides in Western North Carolina

Key Messages

Landslides pose significant risks to public health and safety, local economies, and home and business owners.
Extreme weather patterns—such as periods of above-normal rainfall or drought—are associated with a changing climate. They are already impacting people in western North Carolina.
These extreme weather patterns are also linked to landslide events.
Landslides and debris flows usually occur in areas where they've happened before.
Mapping where landslides have occurred in the past helps identify areas where they could happen again.
Landslide mapping and other resilience planning allow emergency responders, planners, and city and county staff to be better prepared to help protect people and assets from losses associated with landslide events.

Explore More Resources

Select a resource below to explore selected landslide events, historical floods, regional geology, and more. Links open in a new tab.

Historical Landslides in WNC

Explore selected landslide events from across the region
The Great Flood of 1916

Learn how the Great Flood of 1916 caused destruction in western North Carolina
Old Wine in New Bottles

Take a regional geology tour
Sparta Earthquake

Additional information coming soon
Coming Soon

Reducing Landslide Risk

Understanding landslide hazards is the first step toward protecting yourself, your family, and your community. Below are key actions you can take to recognize and minimize landslide risk.

Learn whether your property is in a landslide-prone area using the data and maps on this site
Watch for warning signs: unusual sounds, tilting trees, bulging ground surfaces, or new cracks in walls
Stay informed during periods of heavy or prolonged rainfall (5+ inches in 24 hours increases risk significantly)
Avoid modifying high- or moderate-probability-of-sliding slopes without consulting a geologist
Know your evacuation routes and have an emergency plan ready before severe weather arrives
Contact local emergency management to understand county-specific landslide planning and resources

Download the Reducing Landslide Risk Brochure

Key Messages

Featured Resource

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Reducing Landslide Risk