Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has issued a state of emergency for Harney County and the Burns Paiute Reservation due to significant flooding, making this her second flood-related emergency declaration this month for areas in southern Oregon.
Floodwaters have reached historic levels not seen since the 1950s, leading to Level 3 evacuations and numerous water rescues in the northern and eastern regions of Burns, as reported by emergency officials. The Harney County Sheriff’s Office has conducted multiple water rescues throughout the day, particularly in the North Broadway area.
To address the ongoing flooding crisis, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is deploying approximately 20 personnel to provide assistance. The flooding, which has persisted for nearly three weeks, has been intensified by recent snowmelt and rising temperatures, resulting in significant damage to roads, bridges, and culverts. Additionally, damaged sewer systems have caused sewage overflows, submerging both public and private properties.
In response to the crisis, Burns High School will operate from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and again from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. to provide shower facilities for those affected. Residents can find local evacuation updates on the Harney County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
The first emergency declaration was made on March 18, affecting Clackamas, Coos, Curry, Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Lane, Multnomah, and Malheur counties, addressing flooding that occurred from late February.
The State Emergency Coordination Center was escalated to Level 3 on March 17, continuing to coordinate public information, sandbagging efforts, and other resources to assist those impacted. This latest declaration will remain in effect until April 30 unless it is rescinded or extended.
