At least one person has been confirmed dead and multiple individuals are believed to be missing following a devastating landslide that occurred near Wrangell, Alaska on Monday night. The incident took place along the Zimovia Highway at mile 11, with three homes in the direct path of the landslide.

The alarm was raised shortly before 9 p.m. local time, prompting immediate response from emergency responders including the Wrangell police and fire departments, Alaska Wildlife Troopers, and other agencies. The teams quickly initiated a hasty search in hopes of finding survivors, as confirmed by the Alaska Department of Public Safety.

Tragically, during the course of the search, the body of one deceased person was discovered. Authorities have identified multiple individuals who are believed to have been within the slide area when the landslide occurred and are now considered missing.

The Alaska State Troopers have taken the lead in the ongoing search and rescue efforts, although progress has been temporarily halted due to the hazardous and unstable conditions at the site. Wrangell officials have declared that a large-scale operation cannot be conducted until the area’s safety is assessed by a geologist, whose evaluation is expected to take place on Tuesday. Additionally, drones equipped with state-of-the-art technology are being dispatched to aid in the search.

Authorities have issued a warning to the public, urging individuals not to enter the slide area, as there is a likelihood of additional landslides. Residents in the affected region have been advised to evacuate to Wrangell for their safety.

As the community grapples with this devastating event, condolences are being extended to the family and friends of the deceased individual. The search for the missing victims will resume once conditions permit, and efforts will undoubtedly be intensified to ensure any potential survivors are located.

The landslide near Wrangell serves as a grim reminder of the unpredictable power of nature, highlighting the importance of vigilance and preparedness during such events.