Thousands of residents are experiencing power outages on Saturday as an atmospheric river brings heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region, resulting in fallen trees and power lines that are obstructing multiple roads. Pacific Power has deployed over 200 field crews to restore electricity across Oregon.
By Saturday evening, Portland General Electric (PGE) indicated that 9,711 customers were without power, primarily in Clackamas and Marion counties, while Pacific Power reported 6,357 outages, mainly south of Salem and along Interstate 5 in the Willamette Valley.
Earlier in the day, PGE had reported outages affecting 26,815 customers, with Pacific Power noting 11,494 outages. Numerous reports of downed power lines have emerged, including incidents along Northwest Reeder Road in Columbia County and in the 14100 block of Northwest Newberry Road in Multnomah County.
Marion County Public Works crews informed KGW that they are responding to several downed trees but have not received any reports of property damage. The storm has also caused downed trees and debris on Barlow Road in Mount Angel, according to local fire department officials.
The Corbett Fire District 14 issued a warning about the hazards of downed power lines, advising the public to treat all lines as live and to maintain a distance of at least 30 feet from them. They also cautioned against touching any wires or objects in contact with them, as electricity can travel through trees, fences, puddles, and the ground. Residents can call 911 or PGE to report any hazards.
In Longview, fire crews responded to multiple reports of downed trees and power lines, including a large tree that fell onto a home, fortunately without causing any injuries. Crews are actively working to restore power and clear blocked roadways in the city. Additionally, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for areas above 3,500 feet in the Cascades, with over a foot of snow expected by Monday morning.
