Historic flooding in southeastern Oregon prompts state of emergency
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Parts of southeastern Oregon are experiencing a historic level of flooding after unseasonable temperatures led snowpack to melt faster than usual, according to the National Weather Service.
On Monday, Gov. Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency in the areas of Harney County and the Burns Paiute Reservation due to overflowing waterways that have damaged homes and businesses while making it difficult for emergency services to reach people in need.
The governor said this flooding has created “serious public health and environmental hazards that require all hands on deck.”
“This declaration allows the state to act swiftly to support local responders in protecting Oregonians and the things they hold dear,” Kotek said. “Conditions are evolving quickly. Please check on your neighbors, follow evacuation guidance from emergency officials, sign up for alerts at ORAlert.gov, and have a go-kit ready.”
The declaration went into effect immediately and will be in effect through the end of April, though it is possible that Gov. Kotek coils terminate or extend it as needed.
According to the NWS, the river was at its highest around 4 a.m. Tuesday morning when levels reached 13.4 feet, though they have since reduced to 12.9 feet as of mid-day.
Forecasts indicate the river will reduce to 11.9 feet — below flood lines — by Thursday, April 10. The latest flood information can be followed on the Oregon Flood Dashboard.
Stay with KOIN 6 News as we continue to follow this event.