Crews and neighbors continue to battle the mud in Hidden Valley.
Washoe County says its crews have already removed 4,100 tons of mud — roughly 9 million pounds.
All 21 available crew members worked through Father’s Day weekend.
About six homes have sustained major damage or have been destroyed.
Brad Harper has lived in Hidden Valley since 2007. He’s fortunate the mud didn't breach his home, but it took out nearly everything else.
“I had an RV and a truck parked on the side,” he says. “It ended up crashing through the gate … and the RV ended up in the middle of the court. Amazing, the force of the water and the rocks. I got decorative boulders now that I don't have to buy. I mean, these things are huge."
On its way out, the RV caused even more damage, prompting an emergency response.
Brad Harper lost his RV, shed, boat, and one car to Friday’s mudslide. Thankfully, his 1967 Pontiac Firebird escaped major damage. Credit: Brad Harper.
“It ended up taking out the gas meter,” Harper says, “and my son happened to be here. I said, 'son, it's getting bad, right? Go outside and make sure the gas line ain't broken.' They come out, and sure enough, it was spewing. I said, 'Get out. Call 911. Get the dogs out.'"
Harper's son waded through ankle-deep water to carry both dogs -- each 80 pounds -- to the neighbors while first responders assessed the scene.
In all, Harper will need to replace both of his garage doors. His shed, boat, RV, and one of his cars are all total losses.
He says he heard from a claims adjuster with his insurance company Monday morning, and it didn't sound good.
Fortunately, his other two cars, including a 1967 Pontiac Firebird, escaped heavy damage.
“It’s got a little damage,” he says. “I just got it out of the shop the day before. And I spent a little money cleaning it up, and all that work is for nothing.”
