(See below for recent drone photos by Jimi Mckillip of the Sandlake Road slide area, and a video by Don Backman of the Miami Foley Road.)
Salem, OR — Today, Wednesday December 13th, Governor Tina Kotek issued an update on the ongoing state response to the flooding and landslides in Tillamook County following torrential rains last week.
“As last week’s flooding began, I reached out directly to elected leadership in Tillamook County to offer any support the State can provide,” Governor Kotek said. “Oregon’s State Resilience Officer is working closely with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and the County to ensure they have the support they need as we proceed with an assessment of damages in order to seek federal resources. My office will continue to advocate for residents to receive the resources they need, including support in bringing in federal recovery resources.”
“I am grateful for the partnership from the Governor’s Office in wake of this disaster to provide immediate assistance and support our request for federal resources to fund recovery,” said Tillamook County Commission Chair Erin Skaar. “Our local community banded together during the storm to support all individuals in Tillamook County, and we will continue to partner with the state in the coming weeks to determine the extent of the damages and ensure that all people in Tillamook County have access to the critical resources they need.”
The State of Oregon may be eligible for several federal programs to support Tillamook County’s recovery from recent flooding. The current damage assessment effort will provide the information needed, including determining program eligibility, for an emergency declaration that will expedite the receipt of federal dollars. The assessment is anticipated to be completed in the next two to three weeks.
Tillamook County and the Oregon Department of Transportation are assessing the damage to the road network. The Oregon Department of Human Services is partnering with the County to meet the immediate needs of unhoused individuals displaced by flooding. The Department of Land Conservation and Development is expediting permits for clean-up and repair.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Tillamook County residents and businesses that sustained damage are encouraged to report any/all damage to Tillamook County Emergency Manager Randy Thorpe, email to rthorpe@co.tillamook.or.us. It’s important that everyone report all of their damages, so the county can provide an accurate report and it helps to make the funding thresholds for these federal programs.
Recent drone photos (12/11/23) from Jimi Mckillip of the Sandlake Road slide area:
Video by Don Backman