Mudslides are sometimes called landslides but there is a difference, albeit not always a large one. Landslides may be slow to fast moving, and involve the sliding of a section of land including rocks and earth. A mudslide is generally seen as a debris flow of mud, water, rocks and debris that was caught in the flow.
These slides may be triggered by storms (heavy rain), volcanic activity, earthquakes and other causes. Should one occur it can be quite devastating to whatever lies in its path, including houses and roads. Get out of its way, regardless of the speed it is coming. Attempting to save personal property isn't as important as your life, which cannot be replaced. Mudslides in general tend to travel more rapidly than landslides.
If you see any irregularities in the landscape that weren't there before, such as trees beginning to lean or deformities in any embankments that were placed there to protect those below it, advise the proper authorities of the situation that they may send someone to assess the damage. They'll determine what is happening to the landscape.
Houses and sidewalks may show signs of stress if the land is beginning to give way. A heavy rain fall might be all it will take to send off a slide, perhaps heading in your direction or someone else's.
Debris can travel for several kilometers depending on the circumstances and the terrain. If you live in an area where there is a possibility of a mudslide or a landslide occurring, prepare accordingly. Have escape routes planned and have a car emergency kit available in your vehicle.
Here is a link to help you to learn more about mudslides.
1. Wikipedia - Mudslides