Oregon Public Broadcasting

Heavy rain, flooding, and landslides in Clackamas County have promoted officials to declare a state of emergency.  As Pete Springer reports, the county is also asking people to stay off the roads.

By declaring a state of emergency, the county is eligible for state aid, including help from the National Guard if needed.

Tim Heider is a spokesman for Clackamas County.  He says the county activated its emergency operations center to assess the situation throughout the county.

Tim Heider: “We’re looking for some help getting sand in, you know they’re expecting another weather event on Sunday.  You know, we’re hoping to get some financial assistance in the recovery process. And maybe help residents—help steer residents to where they can get assistance.”

Heider says the county has about sixty roads closed by flooding or landslides.

No injuries have been reported, but about twenty people were evacuated from a mobile home park in Carver.

The city of Sandy lost its 911 service for several hours, but that has been restored.

However, Hwy 26 east of Sandy remains closed due to a landslide.  ODOT says a detour will likely be in place for a couple of days while the slide is cleared.