Boaters Urged To Use Caution In Cold, Low Water Levels - 05/05/26
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Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM)
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Boaters Urged To Use Caution In Cold, Low Water Levels - 05/05/26
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Oregon To Appeal Hazard Mitigation Grant Denial - 04/28/26
SALEM, Ore. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) informed Gov. Tina Kotek that Oregon will not receive funding under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program as part of the 2025 December storms major disaster declaration. The December storms caused widespread damage across nine Oregon counties. Gov. Kotek has instructed the Oregon Department of Emergency Management to file an appeal of this decision.
The President approved the Governor’s request for a major disaster declaration on April 7, 2026, authorizing Public Assistance for Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union and Yamhill counties. However, the denial of hazard mitigation funding leaves a significant gap in Oregon’s ability to reduce long-term risk and strengthen community resilience.
OEM Director Erin McMahon emphasized that hazard mitigation funding is essential for Oregon communities already strained by repeated severe weather.
“Our communities are doing the hard work of recovery, but they cannot reduce future risks alone,” McMahon said. “Federal mitigation funding is essential to protect infrastructure, safeguard lives and support long‑term resilience throughout Oregon. We are committed to advocating for this support.”
Severe impacts from December storms
The December 2025 atmospheric river brought record rainfall, destructive winds, widespread flooding, landslides and mudslides across the state. More than 300,000 Oregonians lost power at the height of the storm, numerous highways and interstates were closed, and one fatality occurred in Yamhill County.
A joint preliminary damage assessment identified more than $15.4 million in eligible public infrastructure damages, with Tillamook County experiencing the highest per‑capita impact at $154.29 per person.
This is the second time in the past year a major disaster declaration has been approved without mitigation funding. This move is historically unusual, as it was previously thought mitigating from future repeats of the same disaster was a prudent cost saving measure.
Also, for the first time, the state has not received any FY25 funding for post‑fire mitigation (HMGP‑PF) work. HMGP‑PF funding is traditionally made available alongside Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs)—but despite Oregon receiving five FMAGs last year, no HMGP-PF money was made available. FEMA has provided no specific reason for this change in precedent, other than stating the program is under broader review.
Why hazard mitigation funding matters
Hazard mitigation funding is designed to reduce or eliminate long‑term risk to people and property from natural hazards. Projects typically include:
- Stabilizing landslide‑prone hillsides
- Elevating or relocating repeatedly flooded structures
- Strengthening critical infrastructure such as utilities, bridges and transportation corridors
- Improving stormwater systems and restoring natural floodplains
- Hardening facilities that provide essential services during emergencies
Oregon has a demonstrated record of successful mitigation projects in communities including Reedsport, Coos Bay, Tillamook and Vernonia. FEMA estimates that every $1 invested in hazard mitigation saves $6 in future disaster costs.
“Without federal mitigation dollars, local governments lack the resources to build safer and more resilient systems,” McMahon said. “These projects reduce the impacts of future storms, save taxpayer dollars and prevent loss of life.”
Next steps in the appeal process
OEM will submit the state’s appeal and supporting documentation to FEMA and will continue working with federal partners throughout the review process. If the appeal is approved, Oregon will be able to pursue mitigation projects that reduce long‑term risks in the counties impacted by the December storms.
More information on Oregon’s disaster recovery efforts and emergency preparedness resources is available at Oregon.gov/OEM.
Oregon To Appeal Hazard Mitigation Grant Denial - 04/28/26
SALEM, Ore. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) informed Gov. Tina Kotek that Oregon will not receive funding under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program as part of the 2025 December storms major disaster declaration. The December storms caused widespread damage across nine Oregon counties. Gov. Kotek has instructed the Oregon Department of Emergency Management to file an appeal of this decision.
The President approved the Governor’s request for a major disaster declaration on April 7, 2026, authorizing Public Assistance for Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union and Yamhill counties. However, the denial of hazard mitigation funding leaves a significant gap in Oregon’s ability to reduce long-term risk and strengthen community resilience.
OEM Director Erin McMahon emphasized that hazard mitigation funding is essential for Oregon communities already strained by repeated severe weather.
“Our communities are doing the hard work of recovery, but they cannot reduce future risks alone,” McMahon said. “Federal mitigation funding is essential to protect infrastructure, safeguard lives and support long‑term resilience throughout Oregon. We are committed to advocating for this support.”
Severe impacts from December storms
The December 2025 atmospheric river brought record rainfall, destructive winds, widespread flooding, landslides and mudslides across the state. More than 300,000 Oregonians lost power at the height of the storm, numerous highways and interstates were closed, and one fatality occurred in Yamhill County.
A joint preliminary damage assessment identified more than $15.4 million in eligible public infrastructure damages, with Tillamook County experiencing the highest per‑capita impact at $154.29 per person.
This is the second time in the past year a major disaster declaration has been approved without mitigation funding. This move is historically unusual, as it was previously thought mitigating from future repeats of the same disaster was a prudent cost saving measure.
Also, for the first time, the state has not received any FY25 funding for post‑fire mitigation (HMGP‑PF) work. HMGP‑PF funding is traditionally made available alongside Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs)—but despite Oregon receiving five FMAGs last year, no HMGP-PF money was made available. FEMA has provided no specific reason for this change in precedent, other than stating the program is under broader review.
Why hazard mitigation funding matters
Hazard mitigation funding is designed to reduce or eliminate long‑term risk to people and property from natural hazards. Projects typically include:
- Stabilizing landslide‑prone hillsides
- Elevating or relocating repeatedly flooded structures
- Strengthening critical infrastructure such as utilities, bridges and transportation corridors
- Improving stormwater systems and restoring natural floodplains
- Hardening facilities that provide essential services during emergencies
Oregon has a demonstrated record of successful mitigation projects in communities including Reedsport, Coos Bay, Tillamook and Vernonia. FEMA estimates that every $1 invested in hazard mitigation saves $6 in future disaster costs.
“Without federal mitigation dollars, local governments lack the resources to build safer and more resilient systems,” McMahon said. “These projects reduce the impacts of future storms, save taxpayer dollars and prevent loss of life.”
Next steps in the appeal process
OEM will submit the state’s appeal and supporting documentation to FEMA and will continue working with federal partners throughout the review process. If the appeal is approved, Oregon will be able to pursue mitigation projects that reduce long‑term risks in the counties impacted by the December storms.
More information on Oregon’s disaster recovery efforts and emergency preparedness resources is available at Oregon.gov/OEM.
Volcano Preparedness Workshops Strengthen Oregon’s Readiness For Future Hazards - 04/23/26
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), in partnership with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) and the Cascades Volcano Observatory (CVO), is hosting a series of volcano preparedness and public education workshops aimed at strengthening readiness for future volcanic activity in Oregon.
As part of this effort, OEM and DOGAMI are convening a partner-focused Volcano Planning and Preparedness Workshop to strengthen coordination and readiness for volcanic hazards. These partner sessions are being held in Klamath Falls, Bend, and The Dalles, bringing together local and regional partners to build a shared understanding of volcanic science, review and refine existing plans, and identify the information needed to support timely, effective decision-making during an incident. Public education events will be held in Bend and Klamath Falls to engage community members and support household preparedness, information below.
Separately, OEM and its partners continue to advance preparedness through initiatives like the “Lahar’d Times (LT26)” exercise, which explores how a volcanic event could unfold and supports ongoing planning and coordination efforts across agencies.
In addition to the exercise, partners will review and provide feedback on the draft Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) Volcano Annex. The State EOP defines roles and responsibilities for state emergency management functions, establishes the conditions under which state resources are mobilized, and describes the organizational concepts and structures used to coordinate actions of response. The Volcano annex provides understanding of the unique considerations and operational information requirements of volcanic activity.
“This collaborative effort ensures Oregon is prepared to respond effectively to volcanic hazards,” said Alaina Calhoun, Preparedness Director. “By bringing partners together to plan, coordinate, and communicate, we are strengthening our ability to support communities at risk.”
Public Invited to Learn About Volcano Hazards and Preparedness
In addition to partner coordination efforts, OEM and DOGAMI are hosting public workshops to help communities better understand volcanic risks and how to prepare.
These interactive sessions will provide an overview of the geologic history and behavior of Oregon’s Cascade volcanoes, along with practical preparedness guidance. Attendees will learn how to stay informed, what actions to take before and during an event, and how to build personal and community resilience.
Public Workshop Schedule:
- Tuesday, April 28, 2026
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Klamath Falls – Oregon Institute of Technology
College Union Building – Auditorium - Wednesday, April 29, 2026
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Bend – Central Oregon Community College
Boyle Education Center, Room 0155
These sessions are free and open to the public. Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about volcanic hazards and steps they can take now to be better prepared.
OEM continues to encourage all Oregonians to take simple steps toward preparedness through its Be 2 Weeks Ready program, including building an emergency kit, making a plan, and staying informed through local alert and warning systems.
For more information about emergency preparedness in Oregon, visit: www.oregon.gov/oe
Volcano Preparedness Workshops Strengthen Oregon’s Readiness For Future Hazards - 04/23/26
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), in partnership with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) and the Cascades Volcano Observatory (CVO), is hosting a series of volcano preparedness and public education workshops aimed at strengthening readiness for future volcanic activity in Oregon.
As part of this effort, OEM and DOGAMI are convening a partner-focused Volcano Planning and Preparedness Workshop to strengthen coordination and readiness for volcanic hazards. These partner sessions are being held in Klamath Falls, Bend, and The Dalles, bringing together local and regional partners to build a shared understanding of volcanic science, review and refine existing plans, and identify the information needed to support timely, effective decision-making during an incident. Public education events will be held in Bend and Klamath Falls to engage community members and support household preparedness, information below.
Separately, OEM and its partners continue to advance preparedness through initiatives like the “Lahar’d Times (LT26)” exercise, which explores how a volcanic event could unfold and supports ongoing planning and coordination efforts across agencies.
In addition to the exercise, partners will review and provide feedback on the draft Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) Volcano Annex. The State EOP defines roles and responsibilities for state emergency management functions, establishes the conditions under which state resources are mobilized, and describes the organizational concepts and structures used to coordinate actions of response. The Volcano annex provides understanding of the unique considerations and operational information requirements of volcanic activity.
“This collaborative effort ensures Oregon is prepared to respond effectively to volcanic hazards,” said Alaina Calhoun, Preparedness Director. “By bringing partners together to plan, coordinate, and communicate, we are strengthening our ability to support communities at risk.”
Public Invited to Learn About Volcano Hazards and Preparedness
In addition to partner coordination efforts, OEM and DOGAMI are hosting public workshops to help communities better understand volcanic risks and how to prepare.
These interactive sessions will provide an overview of the geologic history and behavior of Oregon’s Cascade volcanoes, along with practical preparedness guidance. Attendees will learn how to stay informed, what actions to take before and during an event, and how to build personal and community resilience.
Public Workshop Schedule:
- Tuesday, April 28, 2026
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Klamath Falls – Oregon Institute of Technology
College Union Building – Auditorium - Wednesday, April 29, 2026
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Bend – Central Oregon Community College
Boyle Education Center, Room 0155
These sessions are free and open to the public. Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about volcanic hazards and steps they can take now to be better prepared.
OEM continues to encourage all Oregonians to take simple steps toward preparedness through its Be 2 Weeks Ready program, including building an emergency kit, making a plan, and staying informed through local alert and warning systems.
For more information about emergency preparedness in Oregon, visit: www.oregon.gov/oe
Kotek Announces Approval Of Major Disaster Declaration For December 2025 Floods - 04/20/26
Governor Tina Kotek announced today that the December storms have been declared a major disaster by the President. This will provide federal Public Assistance funding to support recovery from the December 15–21, 2025 atmospheric river that impacted communities across the state. Read more about the timeline on the incident StoryMap.
The declaration makes Public Assistance funding available to nine counties significantly affected by the storms: Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union, and Yamhill. These funds can be used to cover eligible costs related to damage to roads, bridges, utilities, and other public infrastructure. Oregon has also requested Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding to support long-term risk‑reduction projects; that request is still under federal review.
The storms produced record rainfall and powerful winds, causing widespread flooding, landslides, and mudslides. At the peak of the event, more than 300,000 Oregonians were without power, numerous highways and interstates were closed, and one fatality was reported in Yamhill County. A joint preliminary damage assessment documented more than $15.4 million in eligible damages, with Tillamook County experiencing the highest per‑capita impact at $154.29 per person.
With the approval of the disaster declaration, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management will work closely with FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer, Shawna Jepson—formerly OEM’s recovery program manager—to coordinate the state-federal partnership supporting community recovery. OEM staff are already reaching out to affected jurisdictions to begin the Public Assistance application process and provide guidance on required documentation, next steps, and available resources.
OEM remains committed to supporting local partners through recovery and to advocating for hazard mitigation funding that strengthens long‑term resilience across Oregon.
More information about Oregon’s disaster recovery efforts and emergency preparedness resources is available at Oregon.gov/OEM or read the FEMA fact sheet about the disaster.
Kotek Announces Approval Of Major Disaster Declaration For December 2025 Floods - 04/20/26
Governor Tina Kotek announced today that the December storms have been declared a major disaster by the President. This will provide federal Public Assistance funding to support recovery from the December 15–21, 2025 atmospheric river that impacted communities across the state. Read more about the timeline on the incident StoryMap.
The declaration makes Public Assistance funding available to nine counties significantly affected by the storms: Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union, and Yamhill. These funds can be used to cover eligible costs related to damage to roads, bridges, utilities, and other public infrastructure. Oregon has also requested Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding to support long-term risk‑reduction projects; that request is still under federal review.
The storms produced record rainfall and powerful winds, causing widespread flooding, landslides, and mudslides. At the peak of the event, more than 300,000 Oregonians were without power, numerous highways and interstates were closed, and one fatality was reported in Yamhill County. A joint preliminary damage assessment documented more than $15.4 million in eligible damages, with Tillamook County experiencing the highest per‑capita impact at $154.29 per person.
With the approval of the disaster declaration, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management will work closely with FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer, Shawna Jepson—formerly OEM’s recovery program manager—to coordinate the state-federal partnership supporting community recovery. OEM staff are already reaching out to affected jurisdictions to begin the Public Assistance application process and provide guidance on required documentation, next steps, and available resources.
OEM remains committed to supporting local partners through recovery and to advocating for hazard mitigation funding that strengthens long‑term resilience across Oregon.
More information about Oregon’s disaster recovery efforts and emergency preparedness resources is available at Oregon.gov/OEM or read the FEMA fact sheet about the disaster.
Oregon Recognizes Public Safety Telecommunicators During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week - 04/14/26
Governor Tina Kotek has proclaimed April 12–18, 2026, as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Oregon, recognizing the dedicated 9-1-1 professionals who serve as the first point of contact during emergencies and help save lives every day.
During this week, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) proudly recognizes the state’s public safety telecommunicators, call takers and dispatchers who support Oregon’s statewide 9-1-1 system behind the scenes.
Often called the first first responders, telecommunicators provide calm, clear guidance during some of the most difficult moments in people’s lives—whether helping someone perform CPR, coordinating emergency response to wildfires, or ensuring help reaches rural communities during severe weather.
Highlighting OEM’s State 9-1-1 Program Team
OEM’s State 9-1-1 Program plays a critical role in supporting Oregon’s 40 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), which provide 9-1-1 coverage across all 36 counties.
Behind every answered call is a network of professionals who help ensure the system works seamlessly. OEM’s 9-1-1 team:
- Distributes Emergency Communications Tax funding
- Manages the statewide 9-1-1 network infrastructure
- Supports technology upgrades at local 9-1-1 centers
- Provides coordination, financial support and technical assistance
- Works with telecommunications providers to ensure calls are routed correctly
- Supports modernization of Oregon’s emergency communications systems
Their work ensures that when someone dials 9-1-1 anywhere in Oregon, help can be reached quickly and reliably.
Supporting 9-1-1 Through GIS and Technology
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play an increasingly important role in Oregon’s 9-1-1 system. Accurate mapping data helps ensure emergency calls are routed to the correct 9-1-1 center and provides responders with better situational awareness.
OEM works closely with GIS professionals and local jurisdictions to improve location data, mapping accuracy, and system integration as part of the state’s emergency communications modernization efforts.
GIS supports 9-1-1 operations by helping:
- Improve caller location accuracy
- Support faster call routing
- Enhance emergency response mapping tools
- Strengthen situational awareness during disasters
- Support Next Generation 9-1-1 capabilities
Modernizing Oregon’s 9-1-1 System
Oregon continues to invest in modernization efforts to prepare for the future of emergency communications through the transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1).
Oregon 9-1-1 centers presently receive text messaging this transition will allow 9-1-1 centers to eventually receive additional data types such as images, video, and improved location information, helping telecommunicators and responders better understand emergencies as they unfold.
OEM’s State 9-1-1 Program continues to support PSAPs through this transition by coordinating network upgrades, supporting equipment replacement, and helping local agencies prepare for emerging technologies.
A Legacy of Service
Oregon’s State 9-1-1 Program was established by the Oregon Legislature in 1981 to ensure uniform and efficient access to emergency services statewide.
Oregon began to implement statewide Enhanced 9-1-1 service for wireline communications in 2000, allowing call takers to receive Automatic Number Identification (ANI) and Automatic Location Identification (ALI) information. This advancement significantly improved emergency response by providing callback numbers and caller location data.
Today, OEM continues building on that legacy by supporting wireless, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), and emerging communication technologies to ensure reliable access to emergency services.
Answer the Call: Careers in 9-1-1
Oregon is also actively assisting in the recruitment of the next generation of 9-1-1 professionals. The state’s 40 PSAPs regularly have career openings for individuals interested in serving their communities in this critical role.
Being a 9-1-1 dispatcher requires strong communication skills, critical thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. It is a challenging and rewarding career where professionals make a real difference every day.
Those interested in exploring careers in Oregon’s 9-1-1 system can learn more at https://www.oregon.gov/oem/911/pages/911-jobs.aspx
Thank You to Oregon’s Telecommunicators
During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, OEM encourages all Oregonians to recognize the vital contributions of the professionals who answer the call—24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion help keep Oregon communities safe.
To Oregon’s public safety telecommunicators: thank you for answering the call.
Oregon Recognizes Public Safety Telecommunicators During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week - 04/14/26
Governor Tina Kotek has proclaimed April 12–18, 2026, as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Oregon, recognizing the dedicated 9-1-1 professionals who serve as the first point of contact during emergencies and help save lives every day.
During this week, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) proudly recognizes the state’s public safety telecommunicators, call takers and dispatchers who support Oregon’s statewide 9-1-1 system behind the scenes.
Often called the first first responders, telecommunicators provide calm, clear guidance during some of the most difficult moments in people’s lives—whether helping someone perform CPR, coordinating emergency response to wildfires, or ensuring help reaches rural communities during severe weather.
Highlighting OEM’s State 9-1-1 Program Team
OEM’s State 9-1-1 Program plays a critical role in supporting Oregon’s 40 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), which provide 9-1-1 coverage across all 36 counties.
Behind every answered call is a network of professionals who help ensure the system works seamlessly. OEM’s 9-1-1 team:
- Distributes Emergency Communications Tax funding
- Manages the statewide 9-1-1 network infrastructure
- Supports technology upgrades at local 9-1-1 centers
- Provides coordination, financial support and technical assistance
- Works with telecommunications providers to ensure calls are routed correctly
- Supports modernization of Oregon’s emergency communications systems
Their work ensures that when someone dials 9-1-1 anywhere in Oregon, help can be reached quickly and reliably.
Supporting 9-1-1 Through GIS and Technology
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play an increasingly important role in Oregon’s 9-1-1 system. Accurate mapping data helps ensure emergency calls are routed to the correct 9-1-1 center and provides responders with better situational awareness.
OEM works closely with GIS professionals and local jurisdictions to improve location data, mapping accuracy, and system integration as part of the state’s emergency communications modernization efforts.
GIS supports 9-1-1 operations by helping:
- Improve caller location accuracy
- Support faster call routing
- Enhance emergency response mapping tools
- Strengthen situational awareness during disasters
- Support Next Generation 9-1-1 capabilities
Modernizing Oregon’s 9-1-1 System
Oregon continues to invest in modernization efforts to prepare for the future of emergency communications through the transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1).
Oregon 9-1-1 centers presently receive text messaging this transition will allow 9-1-1 centers to eventually receive additional data types such as images, video, and improved location information, helping telecommunicators and responders better understand emergencies as they unfold.
OEM’s State 9-1-1 Program continues to support PSAPs through this transition by coordinating network upgrades, supporting equipment replacement, and helping local agencies prepare for emerging technologies.
A Legacy of Service
Oregon’s State 9-1-1 Program was established by the Oregon Legislature in 1981 to ensure uniform and efficient access to emergency services statewide.
Oregon began to implement statewide Enhanced 9-1-1 service for wireline communications in 2000, allowing call takers to receive Automatic Number Identification (ANI) and Automatic Location Identification (ALI) information. This advancement significantly improved emergency response by providing callback numbers and caller location data.
Today, OEM continues building on that legacy by supporting wireless, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), and emerging communication technologies to ensure reliable access to emergency services.
Answer the Call: Careers in 9-1-1
Oregon is also actively assisting in the recruitment of the next generation of 9-1-1 professionals. The state’s 40 PSAPs regularly have career openings for individuals interested in serving their communities in this critical role.
Being a 9-1-1 dispatcher requires strong communication skills, critical thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. It is a challenging and rewarding career where professionals make a real difference every day.
Those interested in exploring careers in Oregon’s 9-1-1 system can learn more at https://www.oregon.gov/oem/911/pages/911-jobs.aspx
Thank You to Oregon’s Telecommunicators
During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, OEM encourages all Oregonians to recognize the vital contributions of the professionals who answer the call—24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion help keep Oregon communities safe.
To Oregon’s public safety telecommunicators: thank you for answering the call.