A powerful atmospheric river system swept across parts of Oregon and southwest Washington this week, unleashing days of relentless rain that caused widespread flooding, damaged roads, prompted evacuations, and claimed at least one life, according to local officials.
The prolonged storm dumped several inches of rain across the Portland metropolitan area over a three-day period, overwhelming drainage systems and pushing rivers and creeks well beyond their banks. Meteorologists noted that some neighborhoods recorded rainfall totals well above seasonal averages, contributing to rapid runoff and flash flooding in low-lying communities.
Clackamas County was among the hardest-hit areas. Emergency managers issued evacuation notices for hundreds of residences as the Clackamas River surged following intense rainfall upstream. In some river-adjacent communities, water flowed into streets and residential areas, inundating mobile home parks and forcing residents to leave with little notice. Temporary shelters were opened to accommodate displaced families, while separate facilities were designated for livestock and pets.
Fire and rescue teams worked through the night responding to emergency calls. Swift-water rescues were reported in multiple locations, including along rivers where people became stranded as water levels rose quickly. Authorities repeatedly urged the public to avoid flooded areas and to never drive around road barricades.
Those warnings proved critical in Yamhill County, where officials confirmed that a middle-aged man died after attempting to cross a closed, water-covered roadway. Law enforcement described the incident as a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by fast-moving floodwaters.
Transportation was also heavily impacted. Portions of major highways and secondary roads were closed due to flooding, debris, and landslides, particularly in coastal and mountainous regions. State transportation crews assessed damage and worked to clear blocked routes, though some closures were expected to last into the weekend.
Flood watches remained in effect across much of western Oregon and southwest Washington, including the Coast Range and parts of the Willamette Valley. Forecasters cautioned that even lighter rainfall could prolong flooding because soils are already saturated and rivers are slow to recede.
While valleys contended with high water, higher elevations saw a different hazard. The storm delivered heavy snowfall to the Cascade Mountains, prompting winter weather warnings for mountain passes and creating hazardous travel conditions due to accumulating snow and reduced visibility.
Emergency officials continue to monitor river levels and urged residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert, prepare evacuation plans, and follow guidance from local authorities as the region recovers from the latest round of severe weather.
