Update Monday: Noon: Attached is a pic of the slide taken by Sheriff Deputy Derek Baker with the department drone. Public Works reports the geotechnical inspector approved the work on the slide and public works crews epect to have the slide cleared and the road opened this afternoon.
I do not have an estimate of the number of homes beyond the slide. (Sorry).
CCD Rosenzweig
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Kalama, Washington - A slide is completely blocking the Kalama River Road in Cowlitz County, Washington. The slide is just east of Mahafey's campground which slightly more than 2 miles east of I-5. The power is also out in the area.
The Sheriff's Office has brought in extra deputies who will be patrolling the area throughout the night.
Public Work crews have put out signage on both sides of the blockage and they have also opened up the detour route that goes up over the 8100 logging road that connects to the Little Kalama River Road off of the Lewis River Highway (SR503). They have also contacted Geo-Technical experts who will be on site tomorrow to evaluate the slide and if it is determined that it is safe to clear the road they will do so.
The Cowlitz PUD is on site and will be working to re-establish power to the area. They hope to be able to complete the repair tonight.
The Department of Emergency Management is aware of the circumstances and they have been publishing info on social media.
Local schools have also been notified. The fire and EMS have been advised and they are prepared to handle calls for service.
There will be more media releases as events change.
CCD. C. Rosenzweig