Oregon Dept. of Emerg. Management

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News Release

OEM Downgrades Emergency Coordination Center Activation Following Severe Winter Storm Event - 12/23/25

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

SALEM, Ore. — On Monday, Dec. 22, at 5 p.m., the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) downgraded its Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) activation from Level 3 (Regional Response) to a Level 4 (Steady State) following the recent atmospheric river event that caused widespread flooding and landslides across the state. 

 

Recovery Efforts Continue Statewide 

 

 While the ECC has returned to a steady‑state posture, OEM remains fully engaged in recovery operations and is actively monitoring incoming weather and hazards. The ECC stands ready to increase activation levels if conditions change.  

 

“Oregon communities were hit hard by this storm, and our work is far from over,” said OEM Director of Recovery and Response Andrew Jahier. “We’re continuing to coordinate resources for affected areas, and the State Emergency Coordination Center remains ready to support local jurisdictions and coordination efforts to protect lives, property and the environment.” 

 

OEM is working closely with local jurisdictions and partners to ensure communities receive the assistance they need and is prepared to reactivate if the approaching high wind event over-extends local response resources. State Recovery Functions are active, and OEM is supporting Long-Term Recovery Groups and Community Organizations Active in Disaster to address disaster-related unmet needs. 

 

As always, OEM encourages anyone driving this week to check TripCheck.com for road hazards or closures, and to have a full tank of gas and fully stocked emergency car kit. Also, if you encounter a downed powerline, leave it alone and call 911. 

 

For more information on recovery efforts and disaster assistance, visit Oregon.gov/OEM

OEM Downgrades Emergency Coordination Center Activation Following Severe Winter Storm Event - 12/23/25

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

SALEM, Ore. — On Monday, Dec. 22, at 5 p.m., the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) downgraded its Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) activation from Level 3 (Regional Response) to a Level 4 (Steady State) following the recent atmospheric river event that caused widespread flooding and landslides across the state. 

 

Recovery Efforts Continue Statewide 

 

 While the ECC has returned to a steady‑state posture, OEM remains fully engaged in recovery operations and is actively monitoring incoming weather and hazards. The ECC stands ready to increase activation levels if conditions change.  

 

“Oregon communities were hit hard by this storm, and our work is far from over,” said OEM Director of Recovery and Response Andrew Jahier. “We’re continuing to coordinate resources for affected areas, and the State Emergency Coordination Center remains ready to support local jurisdictions and coordination efforts to protect lives, property and the environment.” 

 

OEM is working closely with local jurisdictions and partners to ensure communities receive the assistance they need and is prepared to reactivate if the approaching high wind event over-extends local response resources. State Recovery Functions are active, and OEM is supporting Long-Term Recovery Groups and Community Organizations Active in Disaster to address disaster-related unmet needs. 

 

As always, OEM encourages anyone driving this week to check TripCheck.com for road hazards or closures, and to have a full tank of gas and fully stocked emergency car kit. Also, if you encounter a downed powerline, leave it alone and call 911. 

 

For more information on recovery efforts and disaster assistance, visit Oregon.gov/OEM

Potential High Winds And Mountain Snow Prompt OEM To Urge Caution During Holiday Travel And Power Outages (Photo) - 12/22/25

December 22, 2025 — Salem, Ore. As Oregonians prepare for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents and visitors to take extra precautions. A series of weather systems will bring rain, mountain snow, and increasingly strong winds through Wednesday, creating potentially hazardous travel conditions across the state and may bring additional power outages. 

 

According to the National Weather Service, waves of snow showers, gusty coastal winds, and a potential for strong inland winds may impact travel—particularly over mountain passes, on the coast and along the I‑5 corridor. 

Weather Hazards to Expect 

Mountain Snow and Pass Travel 

  • Snow showers will continue through Tuesday, with snow levels between 2,500 and 4,000 feet. 

  • Travelers crossing the Cascades should expect slick roads, reduced visibility. 

  • Strong Winds 

  • Breezy to gusty winds return to the coast and Coast Range today, with a 45–70% chance of gusts exceeding 45 mph. 

  • A stronger wind event is possible Wednesday, with a 25–50% chance of major wind impacts, including:45–58 mph gusts inland 

  • 55–70 mph gusts along beaches and headlands 

  • The I‑5 corridor may experience up to six hours of peak gusts, though exact timing remains uncertain. 

Coastal Thunderstorms 

  • A 10–25% chance of thunderstorms exists along the coast today, bringing the potential for locally heavy rain, small hail, gusty winds, and occasional lightning. 

River Conditions 

  • Minor flooding will persist along the Pudding River at Aurora through today, though levels are trending downward.  

Safety Concerns Beyond the Weather 

Fallen Trees and Power Outages 

Recent heavy rainfall has left soils saturated across western Oregon. Combined with strong winds, this increases the likelihood of downed trees and power lines. Travelers should be prepared for: 

  • Sudden road blockages 

  • Localized outages 

  • Delays on major routes 

  • Tree limbs can break without warning, especially in high winds or under the weight of snow and ice, so be extra cautious when walking outdoors. 

  • Read more about power outage safety here. 

Hazardous Water Conditions 

OEM strongly advises the public to stay out of rivers, streams, and coastal waters. As runoff from last week’s atmospheric river continues moving through the system: 

  • Waterways contain high levels of debris, including branches and logs 

  • There is potential for sewage contamination 

  • Fast‑moving, cold water increases the risk of injury or drowning 

Travel Preparedness Guidance 

Check Conditions Before You Go 

  • Expect delays and allow extra travel time. Rushed drivers are unsafe drivers. 

  • Fill up your gas tank. Be prepared for taking longer detours or remaining idle for an extended periods of time due to traffic jams by having plenty of gas in your tank. 

  • Visit TripCheck.com or call 511 for real‑time road conditions, chain requirements, and incident updates. 

  • Make sure you have Wireless Emergency Alerts activated on your phone and are Signed up for emergency alerts for the area in Oregon you are visiting by going to ORAlert.gov and typing in your destination’s zip code. 

  • If you are visiting another state, search for that state’s Department of Emergency Management and look for their instructions on how to receive alerts. 

  • If you end up stuck in snow, keep your car running as much as possible to stay warm, but keep the area around your exhaust pipe clear.   

Give Snowplows Space 

  • Never pass a snowplow. 

  • Maintain a safe following distance—plows often create clouds of snow that reduce visibility. 

  • Crews need room to operate safely; your patience helps keep everyone on the road safer. 

Pack an Emergency Car Kit 

OEM recommends every vehicle carry: 

  • Warm clothing and blankets 
  • Water and non‑perishable food 
  • Flashlight and extra batteries 
  • Chains and traction devices 
  • Ice scraper and shovel 
  • First‑aid supplies 
  • Phone charger and backup power 
  • Sand or kitty litter for traction 
  • Back up phone charger and hand cracked weather radio. 

If You Encounter Downed Trees or Power Lines 

  • Never touch or move downed lines 

  • Report hazards to local authorities 

  • Treat all lines as energized 

Looking Ahead 

Forecast confidence suggests a calmer, drier pattern returning by Saturday, December 27. However, OEM encourages the public to remain vigilant and stay informed as conditions evolve. 

Attached Media Files: Multiple spin outs and vehicles not using chains caused closures on I-84 at Ladd Canyon last week. Please chain up when conditions warrant. Visit TripCheck.com to learn current road and weather information as you prepare for holiday travel. Photo courtesy of Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).,

Potential High Winds And Mountain Snow Prompt OEM To Urge Caution During Holiday Travel And Power Outages (Photo) - 12/22/25

December 22, 2025 — Salem, Ore. As Oregonians prepare for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents and visitors to take extra precautions. A series of weather systems will bring rain, mountain snow, and increasingly strong winds through Wednesday, creating potentially hazardous travel conditions across the state and may bring additional power outages. 

 

According to the National Weather Service, waves of snow showers, gusty coastal winds, and a potential for strong inland winds may impact travel—particularly over mountain passes, on the coast and along the I‑5 corridor. 

Weather Hazards to Expect 

Mountain Snow and Pass Travel 

  • Snow showers will continue through Tuesday, with snow levels between 2,500 and 4,000 feet. 

  • Travelers crossing the Cascades should expect slick roads, reduced visibility. 

  • Strong Winds 

  • Breezy to gusty winds return to the coast and Coast Range today, with a 45–70% chance of gusts exceeding 45 mph. 

  • A stronger wind event is possible Wednesday, with a 25–50% chance of major wind impacts, including:45–58 mph gusts inland 

  • 55–70 mph gusts along beaches and headlands 

  • The I‑5 corridor may experience up to six hours of peak gusts, though exact timing remains uncertain. 

Coastal Thunderstorms 

  • A 10–25% chance of thunderstorms exists along the coast today, bringing the potential for locally heavy rain, small hail, gusty winds, and occasional lightning. 

River Conditions 

  • Minor flooding will persist along the Pudding River at Aurora through today, though levels are trending downward.  

Safety Concerns Beyond the Weather 

Fallen Trees and Power Outages 

Recent heavy rainfall has left soils saturated across western Oregon. Combined with strong winds, this increases the likelihood of downed trees and power lines. Travelers should be prepared for: 

  • Sudden road blockages 

  • Localized outages 

  • Delays on major routes 

  • Tree limbs can break without warning, especially in high winds or under the weight of snow and ice, so be extra cautious when walking outdoors. 

  • Read more about power outage safety here. 

Hazardous Water Conditions 

OEM strongly advises the public to stay out of rivers, streams, and coastal waters. As runoff from last week’s atmospheric river continues moving through the system: 

  • Waterways contain high levels of debris, including branches and logs 

  • There is potential for sewage contamination 

  • Fast‑moving, cold water increases the risk of injury or drowning 

Travel Preparedness Guidance 

Check Conditions Before You Go 

  • Expect delays and allow extra travel time. Rushed drivers are unsafe drivers. 

  • Fill up your gas tank. Be prepared for taking longer detours or remaining idle for an extended periods of time due to traffic jams by having plenty of gas in your tank. 

  • Visit TripCheck.com or call 511 for real‑time road conditions, chain requirements, and incident updates. 

  • Make sure you have Wireless Emergency Alerts activated on your phone and are Signed up for emergency alerts for the area in Oregon you are visiting by going to ORAlert.gov and typing in your destination’s zip code. 

  • If you are visiting another state, search for that state’s Department of Emergency Management and look for their instructions on how to receive alerts. 

  • If you end up stuck in snow, keep your car running as much as possible to stay warm, but keep the area around your exhaust pipe clear.   

Give Snowplows Space 

  • Never pass a snowplow. 

  • Maintain a safe following distance—plows often create clouds of snow that reduce visibility. 

  • Crews need room to operate safely; your patience helps keep everyone on the road safer. 

Pack an Emergency Car Kit 

OEM recommends every vehicle carry: 

  • Warm clothing and blankets 
  • Water and non‑perishable food 
  • Flashlight and extra batteries 
  • Chains and traction devices 
  • Ice scraper and shovel 
  • First‑aid supplies 
  • Phone charger and backup power 
  • Sand or kitty litter for traction 
  • Back up phone charger and hand cracked weather radio. 

If You Encounter Downed Trees or Power Lines 

  • Never touch or move downed lines 

  • Report hazards to local authorities 

  • Treat all lines as energized 

Looking Ahead 

Forecast confidence suggests a calmer, drier pattern returning by Saturday, December 27. However, OEM encourages the public to remain vigilant and stay informed as conditions evolve. 

Attached Media Files: Multiple spin outs and vehicles not using chains caused closures on I-84 at Ladd Canyon last week. Please chain up when conditions warrant. Visit TripCheck.com to learn current road and weather information as you prepare for holiday travel. Photo courtesy of Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).,

Oregon Expands Sandbagging Capability With Additional High-Capacity Machines Through SPIRE Program (Photo) - 12/18/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Dec. 18, 2025 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has expanded statewide flood response capabilities with the distribution of five additional high-capacity sandbagging machines through the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) program. 

With this latest round of SPIRE investments, Oregon now has seven sandbagging machines strategically located across the state, strengthening local and regional capacity to respond quickly to flooding and other water-related emergencies. 

The new recipients include: 

  • Malheur County Emergency Management 
  • Harney County Emergency Management 
  • Crook County Sheriff’s Office 
  • North Bend Fire Department 
  • City of Portland 

Harney County previously borrowed a sandbagging machine during the 2025 floods. Through this SPIRE allocation, the county now has a machine of its own, improving readiness ahead of future high-water events. 
 

High-Capacity, Mobile Flood Mitigation Equipment 

The machines distributed through SPIRE are Sandbagger Model II units with motorized augers, designed for rapid, large-scale sandbag production during emergencies. 

Each unit: 

  • Fills four sandbags simultaneously 
  • Can produce up to 1,600 sandbags per hour 
  • Requires four people to fill bags and one operator to maintain the hopper using a front-end loader 
  • Is lightweight and truck-portable, but comes with a trailer for easier deployment 
  • Features a hydraulic, bi-directional auger and agitator to keep wet materials flowing 
  • Includes four filling stations, safety grid and shield, auger and agitator, gas engine, and hydraulic motor 
  • Is manufactured in the United States 

The sandbagging machines were purchased directly from the manufacturer and OEM partnered with the State of Oregon State and Federal Surplus Property warehouse for delivery, ensuring safe unloading and efficient distribution to local jurisdictions. 

 

Active Coordination and Pre-Positioning Underway 

In addition to expanding inventory, OEM and local partners are actively coordinating equipment movement to support current and potential flood operations across the state.

 

The Baker County/Halfway sandbagging machine is being deployed to Hood River County to support ongoing flooding operations. To maintain readiness in Eastern Oregon, Malheur County is moving its SPIRE-funded sandbagging machine to Baker County to stage, ensuring capacity remains available should additional resources be needed or units require movement west.

 

“Pre-positioning resources before impacts occur is one of the most effective ways to protect lives and property,” said Tabetha Daugherty, Eastern Regional Coordinator for Preparedness and Response at the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. “By coordinating equipment movement across regions, we’re ensuring communities have access to critical tools when and where they’re needed most.” 

 

This coordinated staging demonstrates how SPIRE equipment supports real-time operational needs while maintaining regional coverage. 

“From day one, jurisdictions have been stepping up to help each other — sharing equipment, staff, and expertise,” Malheur County Emergency Manager Rich Harriman, said. “That collaboration is critical when conditions are changing quickly, and communities are facing rising water.” 
 
Partner Engagement and Demonstration 

OEM highlighted the sandbagging machines at a recent Oregon Emergency Response System (OERS) Council meeting on November 20th, giving partners an opportunity to view the equipment, discuss regional coordination, and plan for mutual aid use during flood and severe weather events. 

SPIRE investments are designed to enhance life safety, protect property, and support coordinated response efforts across Oregon. 

For more information about SPIRE or emergency preparedness in Oregon, visit Oregon.gov/OEM. 

Attached Media Files: Close up of the sandbagger., Malheur County sand bagging machine hooked up to Malheur County Emergency Manager Rich Harriman’s truck earlier this year., Malheur County sand bagging machine hooked up to OEM Regional Coordinator Tabitha Daugherty's truck. It is headed to Hood River to help with flood response.,

Oregon Expands Sandbagging Capability With Additional High-Capacity Machines Through SPIRE Program (Photo) - 12/18/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Dec. 18, 2025 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has expanded statewide flood response capabilities with the distribution of five additional high-capacity sandbagging machines through the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) program. 

With this latest round of SPIRE investments, Oregon now has seven sandbagging machines strategically located across the state, strengthening local and regional capacity to respond quickly to flooding and other water-related emergencies. 

The new recipients include: 

  • Malheur County Emergency Management 
  • Harney County Emergency Management 
  • Crook County Sheriff’s Office 
  • North Bend Fire Department 
  • City of Portland 

Harney County previously borrowed a sandbagging machine during the 2025 floods. Through this SPIRE allocation, the county now has a machine of its own, improving readiness ahead of future high-water events. 
 

High-Capacity, Mobile Flood Mitigation Equipment 

The machines distributed through SPIRE are Sandbagger Model II units with motorized augers, designed for rapid, large-scale sandbag production during emergencies. 

Each unit: 

  • Fills four sandbags simultaneously 
  • Can produce up to 1,600 sandbags per hour 
  • Requires four people to fill bags and one operator to maintain the hopper using a front-end loader 
  • Is lightweight and truck-portable, but comes with a trailer for easier deployment 
  • Features a hydraulic, bi-directional auger and agitator to keep wet materials flowing 
  • Includes four filling stations, safety grid and shield, auger and agitator, gas engine, and hydraulic motor 
  • Is manufactured in the United States 

The sandbagging machines were purchased directly from the manufacturer and OEM partnered with the State of Oregon State and Federal Surplus Property warehouse for delivery, ensuring safe unloading and efficient distribution to local jurisdictions. 

 

Active Coordination and Pre-Positioning Underway 

In addition to expanding inventory, OEM and local partners are actively coordinating equipment movement to support current and potential flood operations across the state.

 

The Baker County/Halfway sandbagging machine is being deployed to Hood River County to support ongoing flooding operations. To maintain readiness in Eastern Oregon, Malheur County is moving its SPIRE-funded sandbagging machine to Baker County to stage, ensuring capacity remains available should additional resources be needed or units require movement west.

 

“Pre-positioning resources before impacts occur is one of the most effective ways to protect lives and property,” said Tabetha Daugherty, Eastern Regional Coordinator for Preparedness and Response at the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. “By coordinating equipment movement across regions, we’re ensuring communities have access to critical tools when and where they’re needed most.” 

 

This coordinated staging demonstrates how SPIRE equipment supports real-time operational needs while maintaining regional coverage. 

“From day one, jurisdictions have been stepping up to help each other — sharing equipment, staff, and expertise,” Malheur County Emergency Manager Rich Harriman, said. “That collaboration is critical when conditions are changing quickly, and communities are facing rising water.” 
 
Partner Engagement and Demonstration 

OEM highlighted the sandbagging machines at a recent Oregon Emergency Response System (OERS) Council meeting on November 20th, giving partners an opportunity to view the equipment, discuss regional coordination, and plan for mutual aid use during flood and severe weather events. 

SPIRE investments are designed to enhance life safety, protect property, and support coordinated response efforts across Oregon. 

For more information about SPIRE or emergency preparedness in Oregon, visit Oregon.gov/OEM. 

Attached Media Files: Close up of the sandbagger., Malheur County sand bagging machine hooked up to Malheur County Emergency Manager Rich Harriman’s truck earlier this year., Malheur County sand bagging machine hooked up to OEM Regional Coordinator Tabitha Daugherty's truck. It is headed to Hood River to help with flood response.,

Oregon Department Of Emergency Management Activates Emergency Coordination Center To Level 3 In Response To Atmospheric River - 12/17/25

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has virtually activated the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) to Level 3 – Regional Response as of 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in response to an incoming atmospheric river expected to bring heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and increased landslide risk across western Oregon. The ECC will be supported with representatives from key state agencies to ensure streamlined communication, coordination, and resource support for impacted communities. 

Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday night for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. The heaviest rainfall is expected Thursday and Friday, with conditions shifting south over the weekend. Saturated soils and steep terrain, especially in areas recently affected by wildfires, may lead to landslides and debris flows. This will be accompanied by high wind gusts along the coast, in the coastal mountains and some inland areas. 

Stay alert and take precautions: Turn Around, Don’t Drown 

Stay Informed 

OEM also reminds Oregonians to prepare for future flooding and landslide risks: 

Stay Connected 

Sign up to receive the latest updates from OEM and explore preparedness tips, including how to Be 2 Weeks Ready for any disaster, at Oregon.gov/OEM.

Oregon Department Of Emergency Management Activates Emergency Coordination Center To Level 3 In Response To Atmospheric River - 12/17/25

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has virtually activated the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) to Level 3 – Regional Response as of 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in response to an incoming atmospheric river expected to bring heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and increased landslide risk across western Oregon. The ECC will be supported with representatives from key state agencies to ensure streamlined communication, coordination, and resource support for impacted communities. 

Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday night for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. The heaviest rainfall is expected Thursday and Friday, with conditions shifting south over the weekend. Saturated soils and steep terrain, especially in areas recently affected by wildfires, may lead to landslides and debris flows. This will be accompanied by high wind gusts along the coast, in the coastal mountains and some inland areas. 

Stay alert and take precautions: Turn Around, Don’t Drown 

Stay Informed 

OEM also reminds Oregonians to prepare for future flooding and landslide risks: 

Stay Connected 

Sign up to receive the latest updates from OEM and explore preparedness tips, including how to Be 2 Weeks Ready for any disaster, at Oregon.gov/OEM.

State Agencies Urge Caution As Landslide Risk Intensifies In Lincoln County And Across Western Oregon - 12/17/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 17, 2025
MEDIA CONTACTS

___________________________________________________________________________ 

 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD), and the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant as landslide hazards increase across western Oregon, particularly in Lincoln County, where a significant landslide event continues to pose serious safety risks.

 

The landslide, which began on December 12, has destabilized the terrain in the affected area. The ground remains highly unstable, and the approaching atmospheric river is expected to worsen conditions. Oregon Department of Transportation geologists and engineers have been conducting aerial assessments using LIDAR and drone technology but have not been able to safely enter the site due to ongoing ground movement.

Public Safety Warning for Lincoln County:

  • Stay out of the landslide area, including the slope above and surrounding terrain. The ground is still settling and may shift without warning.
  • Do not approach or disturb debris washing ashore along the Siletz River, Siletz Bay, or nearby beaches. It may be unstable and dangerous.
  • If you find debris of a personal nature, please contact local law enforcement via non-emergency lines:
    • Lincoln City Police Department: 541-994-3636 
    • Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office: 541-265-0777
  • Please follow all evacuation alerts (1. Be Ready, 2. Be Set, 3. GO NOW!) and know your evacuation routes.

Emergency Response Updates:

  • Lincoln County Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active and is coordinating with local and state partners.
  • Highway 229 is closed between Milepost 14 and 15. No detour is available. Travelers should avoid the area and check TripCheck.com for updates.

Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon: 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday night for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. The heaviest rainfall in Oregon will be Thursday and Friday, then will shift further south during the weekend. Heavy rainfall may trigger landslides and debris flows, especially in steep terrain and areas affected by recent wildfires. 

Debris Flow Safety Tips:

  • Stay alert to changing conditions. Monitor weather updates via radio, TV, or weather.gov/pqr.
  • Listen for unusual sounds like cracking trees or rumbling rocks.
  • Watch water sources for sudden changes in flow or color.
  • Travel cautiously, especially at night. Assume roads may be compromised.

Be Prepared: 

Oregon communities can reduce landslide risks through land use planning and hazard mitigation strategies. Property owners in low lying areas in and around the landslide area may wish to consider purchasing flood insurance, as it is not normally a part of standard renters or homeowners insurance. It is important to note flood insurance applies only in limited cases involving certain debris flows. It generally does not cover landslides. 

 

However, officials do expect the atmospheric river to cause flooding in parts of Oregon, and it is a good time to make sure you have insurance coverage for both flooding and landslides. Contact your insurance agent, or connect with an insurance advocate at the Division for Financial Regulation’s.(DFR) Consumer Hotline 1-888-877-4894 or visit their Disaster Insurance Resources page.

Stay Informed:

State Agencies Urge Caution As Landslide Risk Intensifies In Lincoln County And Across Western Oregon - 12/17/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 17, 2025
MEDIA CONTACTS

___________________________________________________________________________ 

 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD), and the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant as landslide hazards increase across western Oregon, particularly in Lincoln County, where a significant landslide event continues to pose serious safety risks.

 

The landslide, which began on December 12, has destabilized the terrain in the affected area. The ground remains highly unstable, and the approaching atmospheric river is expected to worsen conditions. Oregon Department of Transportation geologists and engineers have been conducting aerial assessments using LIDAR and drone technology but have not been able to safely enter the site due to ongoing ground movement.

Public Safety Warning for Lincoln County:

  • Stay out of the landslide area, including the slope above and surrounding terrain. The ground is still settling and may shift without warning.
  • Do not approach or disturb debris washing ashore along the Siletz River, Siletz Bay, or nearby beaches. It may be unstable and dangerous.
  • If you find debris of a personal nature, please contact local law enforcement via non-emergency lines:
    • Lincoln City Police Department: 541-994-3636 
    • Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office: 541-265-0777
  • Please follow all evacuation alerts (1. Be Ready, 2. Be Set, 3. GO NOW!) and know your evacuation routes.

Emergency Response Updates:

  • Lincoln County Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active and is coordinating with local and state partners.
  • Highway 229 is closed between Milepost 14 and 15. No detour is available. Travelers should avoid the area and check TripCheck.com for updates.

Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon: 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday night for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. The heaviest rainfall in Oregon will be Thursday and Friday, then will shift further south during the weekend. Heavy rainfall may trigger landslides and debris flows, especially in steep terrain and areas affected by recent wildfires. 

Debris Flow Safety Tips:

  • Stay alert to changing conditions. Monitor weather updates via radio, TV, or weather.gov/pqr.
  • Listen for unusual sounds like cracking trees or rumbling rocks.
  • Watch water sources for sudden changes in flow or color.
  • Travel cautiously, especially at night. Assume roads may be compromised.

Be Prepared: 

Oregon communities can reduce landslide risks through land use planning and hazard mitigation strategies. Property owners in low lying areas in and around the landslide area may wish to consider purchasing flood insurance, as it is not normally a part of standard renters or homeowners insurance. It is important to note flood insurance applies only in limited cases involving certain debris flows. It generally does not cover landslides. 

 

However, officials do expect the atmospheric river to cause flooding in parts of Oregon, and it is a good time to make sure you have insurance coverage for both flooding and landslides. Contact your insurance agent, or connect with an insurance advocate at the Division for Financial Regulation’s.(DFR) Consumer Hotline 1-888-877-4894 or visit their Disaster Insurance Resources page.

Stay Informed:

Oregon Department Of Emergency Management Launches New OEM Grants Platform To Streamline Disaster Recovery Funding - 12/16/25

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is launching the OEM Grants platform on December 16, 2025. This new, statewide system is designed to simplify how organizations approved for grants manage and track Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance (PA) funding after disasters. The platform will improve efficiency, transparency and accountability in Oregon’s long-term recovery efforts.

 

Under the new process, subapplicants will continue to use FEMA’s Public Assistance Grants Portal (GP) to apply for funding, upload required documentation for project development, and work through eligibility and requirements with FEMA. Once FEMA approves a project, management will transition to the OEM Grants platform.

Within the new system, grant recipients will be able to:

  • Manage projects from grant award through closeout
  • Submit and track reimbursement requests
  • Track and report grant finances
  • Communicate and collaborate directly with OEM staff

“Oregon communities depend on timely and transparent access to disaster recovery funding, and this new platform helps ensure we can meet that responsibility,” Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, said. “By modernizing how we manage Public Assistance grants, we are strengthening our partnerships with certain nonprofits, as well as local and Tribal governments. We are also improving how we support communities throughout their recovery.”

 

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It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to lead collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters regardless of cause. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.

Oregon Department Of Emergency Management Launches New OEM Grants Platform To Streamline Disaster Recovery Funding - 12/16/25

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is launching the OEM Grants platform on December 16, 2025. This new, statewide system is designed to simplify how organizations approved for grants manage and track Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance (PA) funding after disasters. The platform will improve efficiency, transparency and accountability in Oregon’s long-term recovery efforts.

 

Under the new process, subapplicants will continue to use FEMA’s Public Assistance Grants Portal (GP) to apply for funding, upload required documentation for project development, and work through eligibility and requirements with FEMA. Once FEMA approves a project, management will transition to the OEM Grants platform.

Within the new system, grant recipients will be able to:

  • Manage projects from grant award through closeout
  • Submit and track reimbursement requests
  • Track and report grant finances
  • Communicate and collaborate directly with OEM staff

“Oregon communities depend on timely and transparent access to disaster recovery funding, and this new platform helps ensure we can meet that responsibility,” Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, said. “By modernizing how we manage Public Assistance grants, we are strengthening our partnerships with certain nonprofits, as well as local and Tribal governments. We are also improving how we support communities throughout their recovery.”

 

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It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to lead collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters regardless of cause. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.