Landslide in Frank Claims 70 Lives
April 29th, 1903
April 29th, 1903
How Long Ago?
121 years, 10 months, 15 days ago
Location
Frank, Alberta, Canada
Category
Natural Disasters
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Landslide in Frank Claims 70 Lives
A massive landslide in Frank, Alberta, resulted in the loss of 70 lives when approximately 110,000 cubic meters of debris slid down Turtle Mountain. The village, located in the Canadian Rockies, faced devastation as homes and infrastructure were buried under the rubble. The catastrophe occurred without warning, causing extensive damage to the small community. Rescue operations were challenged by the unstable conditions, complicating efforts to reach trapped individuals in the debris.
Frank was a small coal mining community.
Approximately 70 people lost their lives.
Rescue operations faced dangerous conditions.
Geological studies followed the landslide.
What Happened?
The landslide in Frank, Alberta, is one of the most significant geological events in Canadian history. Located at the base of Turtle Mountain, the small coal mining town experienced a catastrophic failure when a large amount of limestone and shale suddenly broke away. The landslide released approximately 110,000 cubic meters of material, obliterating homes and enveloping the community in destruction. Without any prior indications of instability, residents were taken completely by surprise, leading to substantial fatalities and injuries.
In the aftermath of the event, local and provincial governments mobilized to assist in recovery efforts, although hazardous conditions hampered their progress. Rescue workers faced extreme dangers as another potential slide loomed. The situation was complicated by the limited availability of resources and equipment in the remote mountainous terrain. Despite these challenges, the tight-knit community came together to provide support and comfort to the victims’ families.
The landslide sparked discussions about geological safety and monitoring in mining areas, leading to a greater awareness of environmental hazards in Alberta. The tragedy also prompted geological studies of Turtle Mountain, aiming to understand the forces that contributed to the landslide.
Why Does it Matter?
This landslide serves as a somber reminder of the natural hazards that can threaten mining towns and communities built near unstable geological formations. The event underscored the need for improved geological assessment and disaster preparedness in Canada. The insights gained from the aftermath have influenced future policies in mining and land use.
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