Gov. Tina Kotek on Wednesday morning declared a state of emergency in Oregon, due to flooding and landslides throughout the state over the last three weeks.

Ongoing storms that began on Feb. 24 have caused at least one fatality, as well as critical transportation failures and widespread power outages.

Kotek determined that the flooding and landslides pose a continued threat to life, safety, property and infrastructure in Clackamas, Coos, Curry, Douglas, Harney, Jackson, Josephine, Lane, Multnomah, and Malheur counties.

“When emergencies hit, Oregon families and businesses need to know we have their back in every part of the state,” Kotek said in a press release. “Recovery starts as soon as disaster strikes, and this declaration will help get Oregonians back to normal as soon as possible.”

Kotek has directed the Oregon Department of Transportation to provide assistance and to seek federal help to repair and reconstruct the federal aid highway system in the impacted counties. Floods and landslides are estimated to have caused at least $10 million in damages.

“I urge everyone to follow the instructions and evacuation levels issued by emergency officials, subscribe emergency alerts on ORAlert.gov, have an evacuation plan, prepare a go-kit, and stay aware of changing conditions,” Kotek said.

People can also visit the Oregon Flood Dashboard for up-to-date information on current flooding issues.

News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2025/03/19/oregon-governor-kotek-declares-emergency-floods-landslides/