Heavy Rain And Wind Storms Continue

Lincoln and Tillamook Counties  experienced a significant windstorm overnight that resulted in widespread impacts, including power outages and debris affecting roadways and infrastructure. The landslide on highway 229 is still settling and has destabilized the terrain in the affected area. The impacted area remains in a LEVEL THREE – GO NOW evacuation order. Due to the dangerous nature of the situation and unstable ground, community members are asked to stay out of the impacted area. Accessing these areas put yourself and first responders at risk. Heavy rains are expected to worsen conditions and carry additional risk.

Local and state partners are monitoring the slide and are making plans for emergency response as the situation develops. Experts are not able to fully assess the full impact of this landslide until it has settled and is stable. Debris from the landslide has entered the Siletz River and is washing up along the riverbanks, Siletz Bay, and ocean beaches. Community members should use caution if they choose to climb on, move, or disturb debris. It may be unstable or hazardous. With the loss of two homes, personal items may also begin to appear.

Sheriff Shanks commented “Our community members are eager to help comfort those that have lost their homes and are motivated to clean up some of the debris.” During this period of uncertainty with the landslide and expected weather, it is crucial community members remain safe. “We share empathy for those affected and ask that any found personal items or items of value be reported to local law enforcement so we can work on returning meaningful possessions to our community members.” Sheriff Shanks said.

If you discover items with personal identification or items that appear to be personal belongings, please report them to local law enforcement through the non-emergency line:

• Lincoln City Police Department non-emergency: 541-994-3636

• Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency: 541-265-0777

There currently no threats to Public Drinking Water Systems positioned downstream from the slide on Hwy 229. Oregon Drinking Water Services through Oregon Health Authority (OHA) continues to monitor the public drinking water system for safety. If your domestic well may have been compromised or you are unsure of your water quality follow these steps from OHA: www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/healthyenvironments/drinkingwater/operations/pages/shockchlorination.aspx 

Lincoln County Emergency Management’s EOC remains active and is coordinating with local and state partners on the developing situation. Updates will be provided as they become available.

Strong winds that began overnight on December 16th are causing widespread impacts on roads across Oregon, including downed trees, fallen limbs and downed power lines. Conditions are expected to continue and may change or worsen as high winds persist throughout the day. ODOT crews have been out through the night responding statewide, clearing debris and downed trees where conditions allow and working closely with utility companies where power lines are involved.

In areas where high winds are continuing and trees are still falling, it is not safe to begin clearing until conditions improve. Power outages may affect traffic signals, highway message signs and TripCheck cameras. Travelers should expect delays to continue throughout the day as cleanup and repairs progress. Road conditions, closures and impacts are changing quickly. Travelers should check Tripcheck.com for the latest information before heading out.