Governor Declares State of Emergency in Oregon

"My priority is to ensure the safety of Oregonians by providing whatever resources they need to stay warm and dry and protect their property," said Governor Kulongoski.

Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski Photo: Tim King

(SALEM, Ore. ) - Governor Ted Kulongoski has declared a state of emergency and authorized the use of state resources to help those communities suffering from the effects of severe weather.

"My priority is to ensure the safety of Oregonians by providing whatever resources they need to stay warm and dry and protect their property," said Governor Kulongoski.

The Governor declared a state of emergency, pursuant to ORS 401.055 due to the prolonged power outage, flooding and the need for shelter in many areas of the state.

The Governor issued this proclamation verbally and will formalize it with an Executive Order. At the Governor's direction, state officials have been monitoring the storms since Friday and are coordinating with local and county officials to address emergency needs.

The Governor has also ordered the staffing of the Emergency Coordination Center (ECC), located at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem. The ECC will provide support for county efforts and help coordinate emergency responses.

"I want to assure everyone that I am monitoring the conditions and will make sure all resources we have available will be offered to the communities that are being severely affected by this storm," said Kulongoski.

More details on emergency efforts will be released as they become available.

The Governor's website provides links to travel advisories, National Weather Service information, Oregon Department of Transportation highway webcams (including information on highways and hazards), and Oregon Red Cross Resources.