Kåfjord,Norway – A series of significant rockfalls threatened a goat farm in Kåfjord on Friday,forcing the evacuation of six homes and causing immense distress to the family operating the farm. The Myrvold family, who run a goat farm with approximately 200 animals, narrowly avoided disaster as large rock masses descended perilously close to their property.
The incident began with rockfalls occurring throughout the day.Roger Myrvold, whose parents siv Nina and Roar Myrvoll own the farm, reported that the rock masses came “against GamlinganS garden.” By Friday evening, the situation had escalated, with at least three major landslides recorded. The Myrvolds’ concerns were so significant that his mother contacted the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) early in the morning.
The danger culminated overnight into Saturday when the mountainside finally gave way. The rockfalls reached within approximately 20 meters of the goat barn, prompting the evacuation of six nearby houses. This is not the first time the Myrvold family has faced such a threat; several years ago, they were forced to send their entire goat stock to slaughter due to the proximity of rock masses to their farm.
“They have put their whole life in that garden,” Roger Myrvold stated, expressing the emotional toll of witnessing the event repeat. “To see that it happens again,it is absolutely awful.” He believes his parents should have been evacuated much sooner, emphasizing the extreme danger: “When you see that there are avalanche 20 meters away from the barn, and you know that they are in there and soften the animals, then you know it is not good.”
While his father remains outwardly calm, Roger Myrvold shared that his mother is “terrified,” a reaction he fully understands given the circumstances.
Anders Bjordal from NVE confirmed to VG that four large rockfalls and several smaller ones occurred. He described the event as involving “bangs and thunders and a lot of noise,” with expectations of further movement.
Context: The Kåfjord municipality, located in Troms county, norway, is known for its dramatic fjord landscapes, which can be susceptible to geological instability. Landslides and rockfalls are a recurring concern in mountainous regions, particularly following periods of heavy rainfall or thawing. The NVE plays a crucial role in monitoring and assessing landslide risks across Norway, issuing warnings and advising on mitigation measures. The Myrvold family’s experience highlights the direct impact of these natural hazards on communities and livelihoods, especially those reliant on agriculture in geologically active areas.
Published
02.08.2025, kl. 01.40
Updated
02.08.2025, kl. 03.11
