Oregon is facing heavy rains and potential flooding, prompting local officials to urge immediate action for safety. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management advises residents to evacuate if told to do so, using routes provided by ORAlert.gov and TripCheck.com to avoid rising waters.
Citizens are warned to steer clear of floodwaters—as little as six inches of moving water can cause a person to fall, and a foot of water can float vehicles away. "Two feet of moving water is powerful enough to sweep away most vehicles, putting lives at serious risk" as the Oregon Department of Emergency Management reports. In preparation for an emergency, it's advised to turn off gas, electricity, and water ahead of time, a precaution which could prevent further disaster.
If evacuation is not possible, residents should move to higher ground or shelter in upper levels of buildings. Basements and lower floors are especially vulnerable to flooding. Officials urge residents to stay informed through official alerts from Wireless Emergency Alerts and the National Weather Service.
To avoid confusion and danger, verify any emergency information before acting. The emergency management office advises checking for accuracy, especially if a post triggers strong emotions like fear or anger. It’s also recommended to have an emergency radio for receiving alerts and as a backup power source.
After a flood, continue safety precautions, such as notifying family and friends via text or social media to conserve phone battery life. Residents should not restore power in flooded homes until a licensed electrician checks the electrical system to avoid the risk of fires
