The City of Whitehorse is getting ready for the spring freshet season and the potential risk of landslides in the downtown area. Officials are warning residents about the current snowpack conditions, which are similar to those in 2022 when landslides caused road closures and threatened homes.
According to Robert Dickson, the manager of engineering services for the city, areas at risk extend from Takhini to the south access road along Robert Service Way. Despite the concern, he reassures residents that the airport’s operations are not likely to be significantly impacted by any potential events.
Dickson highlights that while the snowmelt has been gradual, warmer temperatures could lead to accelerated debris movement along the escarpment, especially in exposed areas. To enhance monitoring efforts, the city has installed additional sensors and increased geotechnical inspections in critical locations.
In terms of emergency preparedness, Ursula Geisler, the city’s emergency manager, is collaborating with property owners in high- and moderate-risk zones to help them plan for potential hazards. Residents are advised to have a 72-hour emergency kit ready, which should include essentials for a three-day period, similar to packing for a camping trip.
Geisler emphasizes the importance of having evacuation plans and alternate accommodation arrangements if needed. In the event of an emergency, residents will receive updates through local radio broadcasts, social media, and the Yukon Government’s Alert Ready system, which can send alerts directly to mobile devices.
While the city continues to monitor immediate threats, efforts are also underway for long-term solutions. In 2024, Whitehorse secured $45 million in federal funds to explore ways to stabilize the slopes. One proposed solution involves reshaping the escarpment to enhance resilience and promoting vegetative growth to stabilize the soil.
Since the 2022 landslides, additional safety measures have been implemented near Robert Service Way, including the installation of concrete slabs and gates to prevent access during high-risk landslide periods.