The City of Whitehorse is getting ready for the upcoming spring thaw and the potential risk of landslides in the downtown area. Authorities are alerting residents about the current snowpack situation, which resembles the conditions of 2022 when landslides caused road closures and threatened homes along Robert Service Way.
Robert Dickson, the engineering services manager for the city, highlights that areas at risk extend from Takhini through Robert Service Way to the south access road. He reassures residents that the airport operations are not expected to be significantly impacted by any potential events.
As the snow melt has been gradual so far, Dickson emphasizes the need for vigilance as warmer temperatures could accelerate the process, leading to possible debris movement along the escarpment. To enhance monitoring, additional sensors have been deployed at critical points along the escarpment, and geotechnical inspections have been increased.
In terms of emergency preparedness, Ursula Geisler, the city’s emergency manager, is actively communicating with property owners in high- and moderate-risk areas to help them plan for potential hazards. Residents are advised to have a 72-hour emergency kit ready, equivalent to packing for a three-day camping trip. It is also recommended to have a contingency plan for evacuation accommodations.
To ensure that residents stay informed, updates will be shared through local radio broadcasts, social media, and the Yukon Government’s Alert Ready system, which can send direct alerts to phones during emergencies. Geisler mentions that door-to-door notifications will also be conducted, with support from partner agencies to assist evacuees.
While addressing immediate risks, the city is working on long-term solutions. In 2024, Whitehorse received $45 million in federal funding to explore ways to stabilize the slopes. One potential solution under consideration is reshaping the escarpment to enhance resilience and promoting vegetative growth to stabilize the soil. Additional safety measures implemented since 2022 near Robert Service Way include the installation of concrete slabs and gates to close the road during high landslide risk periods.