Oregon Governor Declares Emergency Due to Winter Storm

TL/DR –

A state of emergency has been declared in Oregon due to a winter ice storm that caused 13 deaths, widespread damage, and power outages. Multiple counties have already declared states of emergency due to the storm, with the statewide declaration making it easier to access federal funding and support. Six individuals died from suspected hypothermia while thousands of others suffered power outages, lack of transportation, and safety concerns, with some losing homes or vehicles to fallen trees.

Oregon Governor Declares State of Emergency Following Winter Ice Storm

On Thursday, Governor Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency for Oregon resulting from the winter ice storm that began a week ago, causing 13 fatalities, widespread damage, and power outages.

Local emergency declarations had already been issued in Multnomah County, Lincoln County, Washington County, Hood River County, Lane County, and for the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. As the freezing rain continued to hit Oregon, Governor Kotek stressed, “We are now responding to calls from more counties to escalate.”

The impact of the storm extended from northwest Oregon, through the Portland metro area, and into the Columbia River Gorge and down the Willamette Valley to Cottage Grove. The effects have been ongoing since January 12, with temperatures remaining below freezing in various regions.

The declaration on a state level streamlines the process for counties to obtain federal funding and assistance, including the restoration of power services.

Kotek expressed concern for the thousands affected by the storm, facing power outages, transportation issues, and numerous severe weather-related safety risks. Due to the storm, six people died of suspected hypothermia. Other casualties resulted from falling trees and fires, with thousands of Oregonians enduring days of power disruption. Some even lost homes or vehicles to damage from falling trees.

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