Press Releases

A new WCNC documentary, “Lost Ground: The Hidden Danger Beneath Us,” chronicles the aftermath of deadly landslides that have devastated communities across the country. It also highlights the need to close the gaps in science and mapping to better understand and prepare for landslide hazards to protect at-risk communities across the country.

On March 22, 2014, a massive landslide near Oso, Washington killed 43 people, destroyed 42 homes, and severely damaged public infrastructure and private property. The documentary features stories from Oso, Hurricane Helene, and other landslides.

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) speaks in the documentary about the importance of Congress reauthorizing federal landslide preparedness programs that expired in 2024.

In 2021, the National Landslide Preparedness Act, authored by DelBene, was passed into law and created the first-of-its-kind federal landslide program.

“The legislation to reauthorize has passed in the Senate. We’re working to get that through the House, so the program will be reauthorized and can continue going forward,” said DelBene. “We’ve had strong bipartisan support. Communities across the country are vulnerable. This is about all of us coming together and making sure we're doing everything possible to prevent a national tragedy.”

DelBene is featured in the following portions of the documentary:

• From 35:38: DelBene discusses the Oso landslide and her legislation to improve landslide preparedness
• From 40:04: DelBene discusses the importance of mapping landslides and reauthorizing the National Landslides Hazards Reduction Program
• From 47:41: DelBene discusses the need for proactive policies and how communities can stay alert

The reauthorization legislation passed the Senate in January 2026. It was unanimously approved by the House Natural Resources Committee in June 2025 and is awaiting a floor vote. The bill is also included in the Weather Act reauthorization bill, which is in negotiations between the House and Senate.