Landslide Closes Hwy 229

A large landslide has closed OR 229 between milepost 14 and 15, between Kernville and Siletz. Because the slide has taken out a portion of the road, this will be a long-term closure.

The closure follows several days of heavy rain and high water in the area. ODOT crews have been responding to weather-related impacts along OR 229 in recent days, including emergency repairs to a sunken grade area near milepost 9 on Wednesday. 

The Lincoln County Sheriff's office is asking the public to please stay out of the impacted area. The impacted area includes up to five residential properties, including substantial impact to at least three residential structures. All known occupants in the impacted area have been accounted for and have been safely evacuated. 

The slide, including earth debris, structural debris, and possibly vehicle debris has entered the Siletz River. The slide originally occurred on property owned by Weyerhaeuser above Highway 229 and continued down to the properties below the highway and the Siletz River. Their representatives have been notified of the situation and are evaluating their property. Two of the evacuated residents have been connected to the American Red Cross for services. 

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Oregon Department of Transportation, Siletz Valley Rural Fire Department, North Lincoln Fire and Rescue responded to the scene. 

Lincoln County Emergency Management has activated the Emergency Operations Center to assist in response to the slide. State agencies have been notified regarding the river impacts.

At this time, it is not known whether the closure will last days, weeks, months, or longer. ODOT geotechnical crews will need time to assess the slope and determine next steps before a timeline can be established. There is no detour available. Travelers should avoid the area and plan alternate routes. ODOT crews will continue to monitor conditions and will share updates as more information becomes available. Travelers are encouraged to check TripCheck.com for the latest road conditions before heading out.