Emergency Services / Homeland Security

Debris flows are often called mudslides,mudflows, or debris avalanches.

They consist of debris mixed with water.

Debris is mainly soil and anything else, such as trees and rock fragments, that are picked up as the flow moves down a slope or channel.

Debris-flow risk can be reduced by:

1. Preventing debris from entering a stream channel
2. Trapping debris on a hillside, in the channel, or in a debris basin before it reaches developed property
3. Distributing or diverting debris on the alluvial fan away from structures

Additional Information

• Utah Geological Survey