What should you do when there is a rockslide or landslide?

Two people reportedly died while one was injured in La Trinidad, Benguet after a landslide hit a Bulalo eatery on August 6.

Several landslides and rockfalls also occurred in other parts of Benguet and the Cordillera Region following the onslaught of Typhoon Maymay.

Northern Luzon was among the areas affected by the typhoon, which first made landfall in Magsingal, Ilocos Sur early on August 6.

On August 5, two people died after a rockslide in Barangay San Rafael, Rodriguez, Rizal near the Wawa Dam, following continuous rainfall.

Prolonged heavy rainfall from a storm can soften the soil, especially in mountainous areas, increasing the risk of landslides and rockslides.

A GMA News Feed video defined a landslide as a large-scale movement of soil, rocks, or debris down a slope.

A rockslide, meanwhile, is a type of landslide in which large pieces of rock fall from mountains.

Landslides and rockslides commonly occur during typhoons or earthquakes.

According to the US Geological Survey, there are warning signs to determine whether a landslide may occur in an area.

These include the appearance of:

• new cracks
• bulges, or other changes in the ground, roads, or other surfaces
• water flowing down a slope or accumulating in areas that previously did not have water
• leaning utility poles, bent fences, or tilting trees along the sides of mountains or hills
• soil pulling away from the foundations of houses or buildings

Unusual sounds or noises could indicate an approaching landslide, such as the sound of breaking trees, rocks crashing into one another, or rumbling earth.

Here are some things to do when there is a rockslide or landslide, according to the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Office of Civil Defense:

Before

1. Identify landslide-prone areas in your area

2. Monitor news reports and advisories from authorities aboutweather conditions

3. If you live in a landslide-prone area, identify the nearest evacuation center and the fastest route to get there

4. Evacuate early if necessary

During

1. If you are inside your home and evacuation is no longer possible, stay indoors and take shelter under a sturdy table

2. If you are driving on the road, avoid passing on bridges or damaged roads

After

1. Do not leave the evacuation center until an all clear from signal from authorities

2. Report any missing relatives or acquaintances

3. Once you returned home, check the foundations of the house

4. Report to authorities any damaged power or water lines, as well as fallen trees or utility poles

—RF, GMA News