Mounting Mudslides

As record amounts of rain continue to inundate a large percentage of Kentucky, flooding concerns remain a high priority.

True, while areal flooding affects more people and property, flash floods may only impact a rather small area with a smaller number of residents. Nevertheless, the flood products issued by the NWS office in Jackson, Kentucky address both scenarios with their appropriate warnings when there is an imminent need to do so.

But, what about mudslides?

Mudslides are a byproduct of excessive rainfall, either during a short or a prolonged period of time.

Just as important as floodwaters covering area roadways, mudslides can also negatively impact travel and catch unsuspecting drivers off guard, during and including areal or flash flooding scenarios.

I want to see the NWS office in Jackson include the threat for mudslides in their flood products, especially the Watch products.

I am singling out Jackson because it's residents live in more elevated or higher-terrain areas, easily subjected to the threat of mudslides resulting from a heavy rain event.

In addition, the USGS has maps that can verify such locations in Kentucky are at a higher risk for landslide/mudslide issues.

In conclusion, the safety of travelers and property owners are of paramount importance. The National Weather Service's mission says in part to "protect life and property". Mudslides are dangerous and should become more prioritized in future endeavors of the NWS  at Jackson.

MS