Columbia County Emergency Management

Portland Reverse 9-1-1 Test Tomorrow 1/26

2012-01-25T11:45:00.000-08:00

If you live, work or play in Portland, you may get an unexpected call tomorrow.

Portland, Ore. – On January 26th, the anniversary of our region’s last great earthquake, the Portland Bureau of Emergency Management (PBEM) -in partnership with Multnomah County- will initiate the first-ever, citywide test of Portland’s community notification system. This relatively new system has been used successfully in real, small-scale emergencies. But it has never been stress-tested on a large scale.

During this citywide test, PBEM will attempt to send a single message via landline phone, cell phone, text, and email to a maximum number of Portlanders in the shortest amount of time possible. “We want this test to expose any weaknesses in the system,” said PBEM Director Carmen Merlo.

Greater participation in the test will ensure a larger sample group and help PBEM gauge the system’s functionality. Merlo encourages Portlanders to register for this and all future notifications by signing up at www.PublicAlerts.org. Personal contact information provided during registration is kept private and used only for the purpose of sending geographically tailored emergency messages. During the January 26th test, residents will be notified only if the contact information provided corresponds with a Portland mailing address.

It bears reminding, our region could experience a magnitude 9.0 or greater Cascadia subduction zone earthquake at any moment. The last one occurred January 26th, 1700. Scientists say we are in the average window of time during which these massive, destructive earthquakes occur. The community notification system may serve as an invaluable communication tool during this and other kinds of emergencies.

What: Citywide test of Portland community notification system

When: 11:00 a.m. until completion of task

###

Heavy Rain Tuesday and Wednesday

2012-01-23T14:54:00.000-08:00

Heavy Rain and some Wind for Tuesday Night through Thursday Morning Winter Storm Jan 24-25, 2012

The National Weather Service Portland has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday afternoon for Columbia County. Watch for water over roadways and localized standing water. Landslides and debris flows are possible during this flood event. People, structures, and homes located below steep slopes, in canyons, and near the mouths of canyons may be at risk from rapidly moving landslides.

Heavy rain and snow melt are expected to cause rivers and creeks to rise this afternoon/evening and remain elevated through Wednesday. Widespread 1 to 3 inches of rain is expected with local amounts of up to 3 to 5 inches depending on location.

The Nehalem River near Vernonia is forecasted to crest at 10.5 feet early Wednesday morning. Flood level is 12 feet. The Nehalem River is not forecasted to flood. The Clatskanie River is not forecasted to flood.

See www.weather.gov/portland for your local forecast and http://water.weather.gov/ahps/ for river gage levels.

Freezing Rain Advisory until Midnight 1/20

2012-01-20T16:19:00.000-08:00

A Freezing Rain Advisory is in effect until midnight tonight. This covers the far south east corner of Columbia County as well as parts of Multnomah and Washington Counties.

The full text of the advisory is below:
...FREEZING RAIN ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT PST TONIGHT FOR
AREAS EAST OF INTERSTATE 205 NEAR THE GORGE...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PORTLAND HAS ISSUED A FREEZING
RAIN ADVISORY...WHICH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT PST TONIGHT.

* TIMING...THROUGH MIDNIGHT TONIGHT.

* WEATHER...AREAS OF FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED TO DEVELOP EARLY
THIS EVENING EAST OF INTERSTATE 205 NEAR THE GORGE.

* ICE ACCUMULATIONS...LESS THAN A TENTH OF AN INCH.

* IMPACTS...LIGHT ICING OF BRIDGES...OVERPASSES...SIDEWALKS AND
STEPS MAY MAKE FOR SLIPPERY CONDITIONS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
A FREEZING RAIN ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF FREEZING RAIN OR
FREEZING DRIZZLE WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE PREPARED FOR
SLIPPERY ROADS. SLOW DOWN AND USE CAUTION WHILE DRIVING.

See a map of possible affected areas by clicking here:
http://inws.wrh.noaa.gov/weather/alertinfo/4692697

Wind Advisory - gusts to 50 mph - Friday Night Through Saturday Morning

2012-01-20T08:51:00.000-08:00

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory for Columbia County from 1/20/2012 10:00 PM to 1/21/2012 10:00 AM PST. The flood watch continues through 1/21/2012 10:00 AM PST for Columbia County. Watch for water over roadways and local ponding / standing water. The Nehalem near Vernonia and Mist-Birkenfeld is now forecasted to crest at 11 feet on Saturday. Flood level is 12 feet. Yesterday's forecast was for a crest of 9.5 feet. The Clatskanie River is not forecasted to flood.

See http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/pqr/ and add your zip code in the "Get Local Forecast" box in the upper left menu. This includes wind and flood advisories.

See http://water.weather.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pqr for river level gages and forecasted crest levels.

Heavy Rains Abate Thursday, Return to Normal Rainy Weather for the Weeknd

2012-01-19T15:38:00.000-08:00

The heavy rains will end today and a normal rain pattern will return for the weekend. This continues to be a big storm event for central Oregon coast through the Willamette Valley with ten rivers in flood.

Yesterday, the county EOC had a limited activation monitoring the storm and sharing information with our local partners as the snow was impacting everyone. It was a hectic ten hours. Thanks for everyone's participation.

We seem to have weathered the storm. Power was restored yesterday evening to Vernonia and they closed down their EOC and their warming center. The Nehalem River is not expected to reach flood stage in Vernonia. It is expected to crest at 9.5 feet on Saturday. Flood stage is 12 feet. Most of the county roads have reopened. There will continue to be localized water over roadways, along ditches, etc as the snow melts.

Oregon Highway 30 towards Portland in Multnomah County is restricted to one lane for water over the roadway. It is causing delays. Check http://tripcheck.com/Pages/RCMap.asp?curRegion=14&mainNav=RoadConditions to see latest reports.

The County Emergency Management will continue to monitor the rivers in our county through the weekend. National Weather Service is predicting another possible heavy rain event for the middle of next week. More information will be forthcoming from the weather service after the weekend.

Areal Flood Advisory in Effect

2012-01-19T10:50:00.000-08:00

The National Weather Service has issued an areal flood advisory for Columbia County in effect until 7 PM tonight.

Full details of the advisory are listed below:

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PORTLAND HAS ISSUED AN

* URBAN AND SMALL STREAM FLOOD ADVISORY FOR...
COLUMBIA COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
NORTHERN TILLAMOOK COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
SOUTHERN CLATSOP COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
WASHINGTON COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
WESTERN MULTNOMAH COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
CLARK COUNTY IN SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON...
COWLITZ COUNTY IN SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON...
EASTERN WAHKIAKUM COUNTY IN SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON...

* UNTIL 700 PM PST THURSDAY.

* AT 900 AM NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE DOPPLER RADAR CONTINUED TO SHOW HEAVY RAIN ACROSS THE REGION. RAINFALL OVER THE PREVIOUS 24 HOURS IS IMPACTING A WIDESPREAD AREA ACROSS WESTERN OREGON AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON. AREA CREEKS AND STREAMS ARE RISING QUICKLY AND MANY ARE ALREADY OVER THEIR BANKS WITH THE HEAVY RAINFALL.

SALMON CREEK IN NORTH CLARK COUNTY WAS REPORTED TO BE OUT OF ITS BANKS...AND AS RAINFALL CONTINUES TODAY OTHER SMALL STREAMS AND CREEKS ARE LIKELY TO FOLLOW.

RAINFALL WILL EASE THIS EVENING...BUT NOT BEFORE ANOTHER ONE HALF TO ONE INCH FALLS OVER THE REGION THIS AFTERNOON.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

MOST FLOOD DEATHS OCCUR IN AUTOMOBILES. **NEVER** DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE INTO AREAS WHERE THE WATER COVERS THE ROADWAY. FLOOD WATERS ARE USUALLY DEEPER THAN THEY APPEAR. ONE FOOT OF FLOWING WATER IS POWERFUL ENOUGH TO SWEEP VEHICLES OFF THE ROAD.

WHEN ENCOUNTERING FLOODED ROADS MAKE THE SMART CHOICE...TURN AROUND...DONT DROWN.

EXCESSIVE RUNOFF FROM HEAVY RAINFALL WILL CAUSE ELEVATED LEVELS ON SMALL CREEKS AND STREAMS...AND PONDING OF WATER ON COUNTRY ROADS AND FARMLAND ALONG THE BANKS OF CREEKS AND STREAMS.

Snow, High Wind and Possible Spot Flooding This Week

2012-01-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

A strong winter storm will impact southwest Washington and northwest Oregon today through Wednesday. More snow and now high winds are expected with some flooding possible toward the end of the week.

Below are estimates of what we can expect and during what time frames:

Snow
Location: NW OR & SW WA Coast Range
Expected window of when this will occur: Today and Wed
10 to 20 inches
Location: Central Coast Range
Today snow, then rain
6 to 12 inches

Location: Willamette & Lower Columbia Valleys (Mainly Portland Vicinity Northward)
Rain-snow line will shift north during the morning
Prime threat time: Wed (midnight – 8 AM)
Late morning (Clark-Cowlitz)

Wind
Location: Coast Range / Willapa Hills:
40 mph, gusts 80 mph (NW OR Cst Range)
20 mph, gusts 35 mph (Willapa Hills)
Expected Window of when this will occur: Wed (2 AM-4 PM)
Prime threat time: 6 AM-noon

High winds mainly Salem southward
20-30 mph, gusts 45-50 mph
Expected window of when this will occur: Wed (daytime)
Prime threat time: 10 AM – 2 PM

Rain
There is heavy rain potential. Rivers are expected to rise and there is the possibility for minor flooding later this week.

Unknowns
Where the rain/snow line will be
How much snow will fall on the valley floor

A Winter Storm Warning for Columbia County is in effect until 12 PM tomorrow.

Here is the text of the warning:
.COLD AIR HAS SETTLED OVER THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST AND WILL RESULT IN WINTRY WEATHER ACROSS SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST OREGON THROUGH WEDNESDAY. A REINFORCING COLD FRONT WILL CONTINUE TO MOVE ACROSS WASHINGTON AND NORTHERN OREGON TODAY...BRINGING HEAVY SNOW TO THE CASCADES AND THE COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE...ALONG WITH SOME POSSIBLE LIGHT ACCUMULATIONS DOWN TO THE VALLEY FLOOR. A STRONGER LOW PRESSURE PRESSURE SYSTEM WILL THEN MOVE IN FROM THE SOUTHWEST LATE TONIGHT AND WEDNESDAY... SPREADING ABUNDANT MOISTURE OVER THE VERY COLD AIR MASS THAT IS IN PLACE ACROSS THE REGION. THIS WILL RESULT IN MORE HEAVY SNOW FOR THE CASCADES AND COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE...AND MAY BRING ACCUMULATIONS TO THE NORTHERN LOWLANDS AS WELL...INCLUDING THE PORTLAND AND VANCOUVER METRO AREA. DETAILS ARE STILL VERY UNCERTAIN ESPECIALLY FOR THE LOWLANDS...BUT THE POTENTIAL IS THERE FOR THIS TO BE A SIGNIFICANT WINTER WEATHER EVENT.

Precautionary actions
*Be sure your car is stocked with emergency and winter weather supplies
*Have utility companies’ numbers handy in case of power outages
*Have flashlights and other power outage supplies easily accessible
*Stay tuned to your local news and EM social media for updates on the weather

Cold Nights, Freezing Fog, and possible Snow Flurries over the MLK Jr Weekend

2012-01-11T13:18:00.000-08:00

Please drive and walk carefully when you travel outside for the next few days.

Watch and listen to your local weather forecasts or visit the NWS local forecast web page for details.

Go to http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Saint+Helens&state=OR&site=PQR&lat=45.8871&lon=-122.928. Click NWS refresh link to get the latest forecast or enter your zip code.

2011-12-27T22:15:00.001-08:00

High Wind Warning from 12/27/2011 7:56 PM to 12/28/2011 4:00 AM PST for Columbia County. http://bit.ly/tGwM9S for more information.

Three Back-to-Back Storms this Week

2011-12-27T14:35:00.000-08:00

There will be three back to back rain storms blowing into Oregon this week.

Per the December 27th, 2011 National Weather Service forecast, it will be wet and windy but no widespread flooding anticipated. See the NWS local forecast web page for details: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Saint+Helens&state=OR&site=PQR&lat=45.8871&lon=-122.928. Click NWS refresh link to get the latest forecast or enter your zip code.

The full text of the special weather statement is listed below.

NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-
COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON-
CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON-LOWER COLUMBIA-
GREATER PORTLAND METRO AREA-CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY-
SOUTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY-WESTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE-
NORTHERN OREGON CASCADE FOOTHILLS-NORTHERN OREGON CASCADES-
CASCADE FOOTHILLS IN LANE COUNTY-CASCADES IN LANE COUNTY-
UPPER HOOD RIVER VALLEY-SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADES-WILLAPA HILLS-
SOUTH WASHINGTON COAST-I-5 CORRIDOR IN COWLITZ COUNTY-
GREATER VANCOUVER AREA-SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADE FOOTHILLS-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK...
LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...FLORENCE...VERNONIA...JEWELL...TRASK...
GRANDE RONDE...TIDEWATER...SWISSHOME...ST. HELENS...CLATSKANIE...
HILLSBORO...PORTLAND...OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...SALEM...
MCMINNVILLE...DALLAS...EUGENE...CORVALLIS...ALBANY...HOOD RIVER...
CASCADE LOCKS...MULTNOMAH FALLS...SANDY...
SILVER FALLS STATE PARK...SWEET HOME...GOVERNMENT CAMP...
DETROIT...SANTIAM PASS...VIDA...LOWELL...COTTAGE GROVE...
MCKENZIE BRIDGE...OAKRIDGE...WILLAMETTE PASS...PARKDALE...ODELL...
COLDWATER RIDGE VISITORS CENTER...MOUNT ST. HELENS...FRANCES...
RYDERWOOD...RAYMOND...LONG BEACH...CATHLAMET...LONGVIEW...KELSO...
CASTLE ROCK...STEVENSON...SKAMANIA...VANCOUVER...BATTLE GROUND...
WASHOUGAL...TOUTLE...ARIEL...COUGAR
136 PM PST TUE DEC 27 2011

...WET AND WINDY CONDITIONS THROUGH THE END OF THE WEEK...

A STRONG JET STREAM WILL DIRECT A SERIES OF WET AND WINDY SYSTEMS
ACROSS SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST OREGON THROUGH THE END OF THE WEEK IN RAPID SUCCESSION. THESE SYSTEMS WILL HAVE SNOW LEVELS WELL ABOVE PASS LEVEL. HIGH WINDS ARE EXPECTED AT THE COAST AND IN HIGHER ELEVATIONS OF THE COAST RANGE AT TIMES...BEGINNING TONIGHT. WINDY CONDITIONS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE AT TIMES INLAND...INCLUDING TONIGHT INTO EARLY WEDNESDAY.

WHILE NO PARTICULAR SYSTEM APPEARS THAT IT WILL CAUSE WIDESPREAD
FLOODING...RIVERS AND CREEKS WILL RISE FAIRLY QUICKLY. RAINFALL
AMOUNTS OF 3 TO 5 INCHES OR MORE ARE CERTAINLY POSSIBLE ALONG THE
COAST...COAST RANGE...AND IN THE CASCADES...WITH MORE THAN 2
INCHES IN THE VALLEY.

AS THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND APPROACHES...A COLD FRONT WILL COME
THROUGH ON FRIDAY BRINGING SNOW BACK TO THE CASCADES. WHILE MUCH
OF THE SNOW WILL FALL AT HIGHER ELEVATIONS...SNOW LEVELS WILL BE
DROPPING BELOW PASS LEVELS...SUCH THAT SNOW COVERED ROADS ARE
POSSIBLE FOR FRIDAY AFTERNOON INTO EARLY SATURDAY.

RESIDENTS OF SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST OREGON ARE URGED TO CLOSELY MONITOR WEATHER FORECASTS DURING THE NEXT SEVERAL DAYS.

Holiday Fire Prevention

2011-12-21T08:45:00.001-08:00

According to FEMA, home fires are more prevalent in the winter holiday season than any other time of the year causing $990 million in damage. Increases in cooking, home heating, and holiday decorations all contribute to home fires. Here are some simple preventative measures to make sure you have a safe holiday season:

• Do not leave your stove or oven unattended while cooking as this is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen.

• Do not place your tree close to a heat source, including a fireplace or heat vent.

• Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up.

• Do not leave candles unattended. In one-fifth (20%) of candle fires, the candles are unattended or abandoned.

Holiday Travel? Check out these driving trips

2011-12-19T11:15:00.001-08:00

Winter Driving Tips:

1. Winter Readiness Kit. There are many things that should be kept in a vehicle during the winter season, here is a list of the minimum items:

a. Bottle of water and some food (backpacking meals, food bars, etc)

b. Tire chains and ties

c. Jumper Cables

d. Small tarp to kneel on and many other uses during an emergency

e. Space or wool blanket

f. Flashlight

g. Road flairs

h. Small shovel

i. Gloves

j. First Aid Kit

k. A sandbag or two full of sand

l. A good book…

Other vehicle tips include making sure your vehicle is in good running order and the battery is good. Always keep the gas tank at least half full when traveling, and make sure someone knows where you are going. For more ideas on how to be prepared, search for ideas on the internet.

2. Rain. Rain can make roads slick by reducing tire friction in two ways. The rain can mix with oils on the road forming a slick solution and/or the water can float (hydro-plane) the tires off the road surface if the tire (vehicle) speed is great enough. This can occur at speeds as low as 35mph. When it has not rained in some time, be cautious as the built up oils and water can be very slick even during the summer. And anytime there is water on the road surface, slow down to prevent hydro-planing.

3. Frost. As the temperature drops to near freezing (32° F) the road may develop frost crystals, even though it appears to be bare and dry. This can reduce the traction between the vehicles tires and the road surface. If your vehicle has a thermometer that measures the outside ambient air temperature, when it gets to 33-34° F or lower, slow down and watch for sparkles from the ice crystals on the road and the road’s shoulder. If frost is seen, slow down.

4. Black Ice. When the temperature is near freezing, be cautious of any locations on the road that appears to be wet (the pavement will appear black). This may be what is known as black ice and is extremely slick. Slow down prior to the location. When on the location, do not make any quick changes in movement (jerking the steering wheel, hitting the breaks, etc). Just try to “glide” through the location making no quick movements.

5. Elevation. Typically as you gain elevation the temperature will drop. Dependent on other weather conditions, the drop can be anywhere between 3° F to 6° F per 1000 ft. gained. So even though there is no ice or snow at your location (elevation), if you travel up into the hills, you may very well encounter it, so slow down.

6. Cold Air Sinks. As cold air is heavier then warm air, it can sink down to lower elevations. Some areas such as the Chapman area on Scappoose Vernonia Road are known as a cold air sink areas and may be colder then areas even at higher elevations. The cold air may sit in these areas for days allowing for frost or ice to develop making the roads slick. Watch for frost or snow hanging around in an area longer than other areas, and slow down.

7. Bridges. Bridges have no insulating material under them (soil or rock), thus will frost / freeze faster then the main road surface. When the temperature is near freezing, slow down when approaching and crossing bridges.

8. De-icer. ODOT and the County use chemical de-icer (magnesium chloride) on some roads when the weather conditions are right. Once the road has been sprayed with de-icer, it can remain effective for up to 5 days. Rain will dilute and wash the de-icer off the road, so timing of when to apply it is critical. Also, de-icer is only effective when the temperatures are within 15 ° of 32° F. De-icer is great, but don’t trust it. The de-icer may be old or diluted, or the temperature may be too low for it to be totally effective. So when the temperatures are at or near freezing, slow down.

9. Sanding Rock. ODOT and the County use sanding rock during certain weather conditions. This is the material that is used on most County roads. It is not affected by temperature or rain. However, as each vehicle passes over a sanded road, the tires bounce/throw the sand off the road. After several hours of high volume traffic, most of the sand may have been kicked off the road. So when the temperatures are at or near freezing, even though the road has been sanded, slow down.

10. Shadows and shaded areas. Many areas of our roads may remain in shaded areas throughout the day. In these areas the sun has not had an opportunity to warm the road and melt any frost or ice that may have formed during the night. So during the day, most of the road may be clear of ice and frost, except these shaded areas, which can be extremely treacherous. So when the temperatures are at or near freezing, slow down when coming into a shaded area, even though most of the road is exposed to the sun and is clear and dry.

11. Snow. The road crews work very hard and put in long hours trying to keep the roads clear of snow. However, during large long snow events, that may not be totally possible. When the roads are covered with snow even to the lower elevations, the crews will usually start at the higher elevations, where the problems are greatest, maintaining priority roads first. As the priority roads are opened and cleared, the crews will begin working on secondary roads. During snow plowing periods, only limited sand will be used, and no de-icer. It is not efficient to sand a road, only hours later to again plow that road and throw the previous sand into the ditch with the snow. Use appropriate traction device on tires, slow down, and travel when only necessary.

12. Ice. Ice is extremely slick when the temperature is just a few degrees above or below freezing. When ice is encountered do not contuct any quick movements, as was described in #3. Metal studs or chains/cables on the vehicle tires help, but even they cannot be counted on. When the roads are iced over, it is a very good idea to travel only when necessary.

13. Mud on the Road. Many land use activities can cause mud to be tracked onto the road’s surface. The amount of mud can be anything from just enough to “paint” the road a light brown, to a couple of inches. If the moisture content is just right, the mud can be extremely slick. Watch for activities off the road that may drag mud onto the road’s surface. When such activities are seen, slow down in anticipation of encountering slick mud.

Preparedness Presents

2011-12-15T13:41:00.000-08:00

Give preparedness presents this holiday season. They're good for that hard-to-shop-for person and are a unique way to show you care.

Emergency and preparedness items that might make great gifts include:

NOAA Weather Radios and extra batteries.
Enrollment in a CPR or first-aid class.
GPS units for vehicles.
Smoke detectors.
Emergency cell phones.
Appropriate fire extinguishers (kitchen, garage, car).
Disaster kits for homes, offices and vehicles (first aid kits, food, water and prescription medications for 72 hours, extra eyeglasses or contact lenses, extra clothing, blankets, flashlights and spare batteries, heavy-duty work gloves and sturdy shoes).
Foldable ladders for second-story escape in a fire.
Car kits (emergency flares, shovels, ice scrapers, flashlights and fluorescent distress flags).
Pet Disaster Kits (food, water, leashes, dishes and carrying case or crate).
A camp stove with extra fuel.
The gift of a gardener to cut back combustible vegetation from wildfire-vulnerable homes.
National Flood Insurance.

Storm Ready Ceremony

2011-12-07T12:06:00.000-08:00

Please join us next Wednsday, December 14th at 10:30 AM as we celebrate being recognized as StormReady! The reception will be held at the Columbia County Roads Department.

MEDIA RELEASE

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PRESENTS

STORM READY CERTIFICATION TO COLUMBIA COUNTY

Columbia County will be presented with a Storm Ready Certification from the National Weather Service at the Board of County Commissioners meeting on December 14th at 10:00 am. For those wanting to attend the presentation by the National Weather Service, the event will take place at the Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR in Room 308.

Following the presentation of the certification to the County Commissioners, there will be a reception for the public at the County Roads Department, 1054 Oregon Street, St. Helens, OR, at 10:30 AM. This will be an opportunity to talk with representatives from the National Weather Service, Columbia County Emergency Management and Columbia 911 Communication about the certification and what it means to the county.

Columbia County is the fourth county in Oregon to receive this designation and the first in the Portland metropolitan area.

Storm Ready communities are better prepared to save lives from the onslaught of severe weather through advanced planning, education and awareness. No community is storm proof, but StormReady can help communities save lives. http://www.stormready.noaa.gov/

Air Stagnation Advisory

2011-12-05T16:27:00.000-08:00

An air stagnation advisory has been issued for Columbia county and will be in effect until 4 PM Friday. This means that air is not moving due to an inversion layer and pollution levels will be higher than normal due to the lack of movement.

Read the full text of the advisory below.

ORZ005>007-WAZ022-039-060300-
/O.EXT.KPQR.AS.Y.0004.000000T0000Z-111210T0000Z/
LOWER COLUMBIA-GREATER PORTLAND METRO AREA-
CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY-I-5 CORRIDOR IN COWLITZ COUNTY-
GREATER VANCOUVER AREA-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ST. HELENS...HILLSBORO...PORTLAND...
OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...TROUTDALE...SALEM...MCMINNVILLE...
LONGVIEW...KELSO...VANCOUVER...BATTLE GROUND...CAMAS...WASHOUGAL
1055 AM PST MON DEC 5 2011

...AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 PM PST FRIDAY FOR
THE GREATER PORTLAND AND VANCOUVER METRO AREAS...THE CENTRAL
WILLAMETTE VALLEY...THE LOWER COLUMBIA AND THE I-5 CORRIDOR IN
COWLITZ COUNTY...

THE AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY IS NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 PM PST
FRIDAY.

* TIMING: NOW THROUGH FRIDAY.

* CONDITIONS: AIR QUALITY IS EXPECTED TO REMAIN POOR THROUGH
FRIDAY DUE TO A STRONG TEMPERATURE INVERSION TRAPPING POLLUTANTS
NEAR IN THE LOWER ATMOSPHERE. THERE MAY BE SOME IMPROVEMENT
WEDNESDAY AS A WEATHER DISTURBANCE PASSES TO THE NORTH AND EAST
BUT SHOULD BE BRIEF IF AT ALL.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

AN AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY IS ISSUED WHEN LIMITED MOVEMENT OF AN
AIR MASS IS EXPECTED TO ALLOW POLLUTION LEVELS TO INCREASE...WITH
CONDITIONS PERSISTING AT LEAST 72 HOURS. CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL
AIR QUALITY AGENCY FOR POSSIBLE RESTRICTIONS IN YOUR AREA. THIS
PRODUCT WILL BE UPDATED AT LEAST EVERY 24 HOURS WHEN CONDITIONS
EXIST OR ARE EXPECTED TO CONTINUE.

&&

Wind and Rain Storm Totals

2011-11-22T16:21:00.000-08:00

Here are the peak wind gusts and highest rainfall totals from around the Pacific Northwest for the last 24 hours ending at 3pm PST.

Information courtesy of Steve Pierce, President, Oregon Chapter of the American Meteorological Society

24 hour peak wind gusts ending at 3 PM PST

Station	Elev	MAX 24 Hr Gust

Rattlesnake Moun	3560 ft	100
Mt. Hebo HEBOWX	3160 ft	97
HOZOMEEN	1700 ft	95
Gable Mountain	1086 ft	87
Mission Ridge-to	6739 ft	85
Crystal Mtn-top	6870 ft	83
SQUAW PEAK	4964 ft	83
Mt Howard HOWARD	8150 ft	81
ONION MOUNTAIN L	4438 ft	78
HUMPTULLIPS	2400 ft	75
Timberline Lodge	7001 ft	75
Ferndale CW3375	106 ft	74
Lincoln C LINCON	187 ft	74
ROCKHOUSE 1	1797 ft	74
Mount Identifier	3480 ft	74
Cape Mear MEARES	1421 ft	72
White Pass-top	5909 ft	72
North Ben DW1832	971 ft	71
FLYNN PRAIRIE	1543 ft	71
ZIM	4089 ft	70
Mount Baker-Pano	5000 ft	69
Garibaldi	0 ft	69
PATJENS	2170 ft	69
SUMMER LAKE	5085 ft	69
Yaquina Bridge W	120 ft	68
Yaquina Bridge W	120 ft	68
TIDEWATER	2035 ft	67
Florence/Siuslaw	26 ft	67
Yachats YACHTS	74 ft	67
Cape Disappointm	120 ft	66
Cape Foul NEWPRT	1024 ft	66
Pacific PACCTY-2	28 ft	66
Edna	410 ft	66
Hurricane Ridge	5151 ft	64
Rattlesnake Spri	679 ft	64
ALDER RIDGE	4500 ft	64
Port Orford	0 ft	62
Condon CW7527	2838 ft	62
LITTLE MCCOY CRE	5080 ft	62
Clatsop Spit	30 ft	61
NORTH POLE RIDGE	3480 ft	61
Bellingham Inter	157 ft	60
SUGARLOAF	4328 ft	60
Hanford Emergenc	1240 ft	60
WAGONTIRE	6420 ft	60

24 hour rainfall totals ending at 3 PM PST

Station	Elev	24 HR Precip

DRY CRK	2700 ft	6.61
SWIFT CREEK	3770 ft	6.10
JEFFERSON CREEK	2200 ft	5.94
JUNE LAKE	3340 ft	5.60
Mt. Hebo HEBOWX	3160 ft	5.15
CEDAR	2220 ft	4.74
SHEEP CANYON	4030 ft	4.60
NEHALEM RIVER NE	40 ft	4.56
SPENCER MEADOW	3400 ft	4.40
Swift Dam	1010 ft	4.33
LOG CREEK	2800 ft	4.31
LEES CAMP RAIN G	655 ft	4.30
NORTH FORK SKOKO	762 ft	4.25
Camas DW4130	246 ft	4.18
CALAMITY	2500 ft	4.10
ORR CREEK	3000 ft	4.02
LONE PINE	3800 ft	4.00
NORTH FORK	3120 ft	4.00
SOUTH FORK	2257 ft	3.95
Bremerton KB2SKP	459 ft	3.85
Frances	231 ft	3.80
BUCK CREEK	2690 ft	3.78
Grande Ronde	395 ft	3.70
SADDLE MOUNTAIN	3250 ft	3.70
TIDEWATER	2035 ft	3.44
BUCKINGHORSE	4869 ft	3.40
SPIRIT LAKE	3120 ft	3.40
MILLER WOODS	450 ft	3.30
SURPRISE LAKES	4250 ft	3.30
QUAIL PRAIRIE LO	3183 ft	3.28
RYE MOUNTAIN	2000 ft	3.23
TILLAMOOK	11 ft	3.23
ROCKHOUSE 1	1797 ft	3.18
HORSE CREEK	3402 ft	3.16
Newport WA7ZVY-4	128 ft	3.12
FINNEY CREEK	2160 ft	3.10
KING MOUNTAIN	4000 ft	3.10
SEINE CREEK	2000 ft	3.00
MOUNT ADAMS RANG	1960 ft	3.00
OLALLIE MEADOWS	4030 ft	3.00
POTATO HILL	4500 ft	3.00
Cornelius DW7611	482 ft	2.96
Mount Baker	4219 ft	2.95
Road's E W7KKE-3	89 ft	2.92
Trout Lak CW4887	1929 ft	2.92
Snowden K7NPS	2484 ft	2.91
Dixie Mtn	1430 ft	2.90
JEWELL WILDLIFE	570 ft	2.90
YELLOWSTONE MTN.	3080 ft	2.90
Ariel DW4453	463 ft	2.87
NEHALEM RIVER NE	640 ft	2.85
Tigard CW9129	200 ft	2.81
Bonneville Dam	67 ft	2.80
Crystal Mtn-base	4449 ft	2.79
TEPEE CREEK	2961 ft	2.79
WHITE RIVER RANG	4600 ft	2.78
EASY PASS	5269 ft	2.70
LITTLE MEADOWS	4000 ft	2.70
NESTUCCA RIVER N	50 ft	2.68
Scappoose Indust	52 ft	2.67
ASHFORD	1421 ft	2.65
LARCH MT.	1150 ft	2.64
MARTEN RIDGE	3560 ft	2.60
Timber Junction	780 ft	2.60
WANDERER'S PEAK	4350 ft	2.60
Hillsboro CW3999	150 ft	2.54
TROUT CREEK	2320 ft	2.54
Shelton Sanderso	269 ft	2.50
Yacolt CW6182	666 ft	2.50
RED BOX	3250 ft	2.49
RED MOUND	1753 ft	2.47
CASTLE ROCK	213 ft	2.46
Cape Mear MEARES	1421 ft	2.45
Beaverton DW6123	295 ft	2.44
Napavine CW5298	436 ft	2.40
MORSE LAKE	5400 ft	2.40
MILL CREEK	2820 ft	2.39
Kalama CW4577	840 ft	2.36
CHEHALIS	262 ft	2.35
Forest Gro N7NKE	200 ft	2.34
FIRE TRNG. ACADE	1580 ft	2.33
Silverdal DW2607	367 ft	2.32
HOZOMEEN CAMP	1650 ft	2.30
Hoodsport DW4784	10 ft	2.30
JUMP OFF JOE	3500 ft	2.30
Long Beac CW9086	7 ft	2.29
Darringto DW2779	390 ft	2.28
Oceanside OCNSID	22 ft	2.28
Tillamook Airpor	36 ft	2.28
Lincoln C LINCON	187 ft	2.26
Portland Interna	26 ft	2.26
Vancouver, Pears	26 ft	2.26
Woodland CW5733	35 ft	2.26
Elkhorn Mtn	1350 ft	2.24
FLOWERY TRAIL	2680 ft	2.23
NISQUALLY RIVER	1450 ft	2.22
Bremerton Nation	440 ft	2.21
CRN SITE NEAR QU	286 ft	2.20
TINKHAM CREEK	3070 ft	2.20
BIG RED MOUNTAIN	6250 ft	2.20
TOKETEE	3360 ft	2.20
ANNIE SPRINGS	6020 ft	2.20
Dallas CW9822	459 ft	2.19
Aloha CW4176	210 ft	2.18
Rochester CW6975	160 ft	2.17
Portland CW6930	236 ft	2.17
Astoria Regional	10 ft	2.16
Brush Pra CW7892	285 ft	2.16
Winlock DW8787	450 ft	2.16
FORKS	303 ft	2.15
GOLD HILL	3350 ft	2.13
QUILCENE	62 ft	2.11
Portland DW4881	295 ft	2.11
Cedar Lake	1560 ft	2.10
ELBOW LAKE	3200 ft	2.10
Palmer	920 ft	2.10
SKOOKUM CREEK	3920 ft	2.10
Paradise-Mt. Rai	5499 ft	2.10
MARION FORKS	2600 ft	2.10
SANTIAM JCT.	3750 ft	2.10
PARK CREEK RIDGE	4600 ft	2.10
PEBBLE	3450 ft	2.09
Snoqualmie Pass	2999 ft	2.09
Olympia Airport	203 ft	2.07
Dundee DW4147	259 ft	2.06
Portland DW3762	233 ft	2.06
Alpental-base	3120 ft	2.05
Tumwater CW9232	190 ft	2.05
Battle Gr DW1554	285 ft	2.05
Gleneden DW8761	72 ft	2.02
BLAZED ALDER	3650 ft	2.00
GREENPOINT	3200 ft	2.00
PEPPER CREEK	2139 ft	2.00
Vancouver DW6618	220 ft	2.00
EVANS CREEK	3200 ft	2.00

Flood Advisory

2011-11-22T10:39:00.000-08:00

The National Weather Service has issued a flood advisory for Tillamook, Clatsop, Washington, Yamill, Skamania, Pacific, Cowlitz, Wahkiakum, Clark, Multnomah, Clackamas and Columbia County lasting through 6:15 PM tonight.

Please be cautious as you travel. If a road appears to have standing water, choose an alternate route.

Read below for full details on the NWS advisory.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PORTLAND HAS ISSUED AN

* URBAN AND SMALL STREAM FLOOD ADVISORY FOR...
CLATSOP COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
COLUMBIA COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
MULTNOMAH COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
NORTH CENTRAL CLACKAMAS COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
TILLAMOOK COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON... WASHINGTON COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
WESTERN YAMHILL COUNTY IN NORTHWEST OREGON...
CLARK COUNTY IN SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON...
COWLITZ COUNTY IN SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON...
SOUTHERN PACIFIC COUNTY IN SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON...
WAHKIAKUM COUNTY IN SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON...
WESTERN SKAMANIA COUNTY IN SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON...

* UNTIL 615 PM PST TUESDAY.

• AT 1030 AM PST NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE DOPPLER RADAR AND RAIN GAGES SHOW VERY HEAVY RAIN OCCURRING IN AN AREA STRETCHING FROM THE NORTHWEST OREGON AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON COAST EASTWARD TO THE NORTHWEST OREGON AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON CASCADES. THE AREA OF VERY HEAVY RAIN WAS NEARLY STATIONARY WITH RAINFALL RATES OF NEARLY ONE-HALF INCH PER HOUR.

• EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICIALS HAVE REPORTED URBAN FLOODING IN THE TILLAMOOK AREA AS WELL AS HIGHWAY 101 SOUTH OF SEASIDE. SMALL STREAM AND URBAN STREET FLOODING IS HIGHLY LIKELY OVER THE NEXT SEVERAL HOURS.

• PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

MOST FLOOD DEATHS OCCUR IN AUTOMOBILES. NEVER DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE INTO AREAS WHERE THE WATER COVERS THE ROADWAY. FLOOD WATERS ARE USUALLY DEEPER THAN THEY APPEAR. JUST ONE FOOT OF FLOWING WATER IS POWERFUL ENOUGH TO SWEEP VEHICLES OFF THE ROAD. WHEN ENCOUNTERING FLOODED ROADS MAKE THE SMART CHOICE...TURN AROUND...DONT DROWN.

High Wind Warning Tuesday for Coast and Vernonia

2011-11-21T22:25:00.000-08:00

The National Weather Service has updated information about wind concerns at the coast
and Vernonia tomorrow.

A high wind warning is in effect from 6 AM to 10 PM Tuesday for the coast and Vernonia.
There will be an unusually long duration of strong winds along in these areas,
which may last through Tuesday night.

South to southwest winds will increase Tuesday morning to 30 to 40 MPH with wind gusts
up to 65 MPH.

Please read below for specifics.

...STRONG WINDS EXPECTED ACROSS PORTIONS OF NORTHWEST OREGON AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON THROUGH TUESDAY NIGHT... .

A POWERFUL BUT SLOW MOVING FRONT WILL GRADUALLY SPREAD STRONG SOUTH TO SOUTHWEST WINDS ONSHORE TONIGHT AND TUESDAY...AFFECTING MUCH OF NORTHWEST OREGON AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON. THE SLOW MOVING NATURE OF THIS FRONT WILL PROVIDE AN UNUSUALLY LONG DURATION OF STRONG WINDS ALONG THE COAST...POSSIBLY LASTING IN SOME AREAS THROUGH TUESDAY NIGHT. THE FRONT IS EXPECTED TO SHIFT SOUTH AND WEAKEN WEDNESDAY...FINALLY BRINGING AN END TO THE STRONG WINDS.

ORZ003-004-221330- /O.EXB.KPQR.HW.W.0017.111122T1400Z-111123T0600Z/ COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON- CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON- INCLUDING THE CITY OF...VERNONIA 921 PM PST MON NOV 21 2011

...HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 AM TO 10 PM PST TUESDAY FOR THE NORTHERN AND CENTRAL OREGON COAST RANGE...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PORTLAND HAS ISSUED A HIGH WIND WARNING...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 6 AM TO 10 PM PST TUESDAY.

* WINDS AND TIMING: SOUTH TO SOUTHWEST WINDS WILL INCREASE TUESDAY MORNING TO 30 TO 40 MPH WITH GUSTS TO 65 MPH...CONTINUING INTO TUESDAY EVENING. EXPOSED RIDGETOPS WILL LIKELY EXPERIENCE THE STRONGEST AND MOST FREQUENT STRONG WIND GUSTS.

* LOCATIONS INCLUDE: VERNONIA...SUNSET SUMMIT...BLODGETT...GRANDE RONDE...ALSEA...HEBO.

* IMPACTS: DOWNED TREES AND POWER LINES MAY LOCALLY OBSTRUCT ROADWAYS. POWER OUTAGES MAY OCCUR TUESDAY AND TUESDAY NIGHT.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A HIGH WIND WARNING MEANS A HAZARDOUS HIGH WIND EVENT IS EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. SUSTAINED WIND SPEEDS OF AT LEAST 40 MPH OR GUSTS OF 58 MPH OR MORE CAN LEAD TO PROPERTY DAMAGE.

High Wind/Heavy Rain Event

2011-11-21T11:49:00.000-08:00

The National Weather Service has alerted us of a heavy rain/high wind event heading our way. The worst of the storm will hit starting Tuesday morning (4-6 AM) and last for about 12 hours--through Tuesday evening.

Winds are expected to be around 25 mph sustained with gusts of 40-45 at times. As trees are still heavy with leaves, winds of this speed will mean there is a higher than normal chance of downed trees, branches and clogged drains.

There is the potential for two to four inches of rain which will likely cause areas of urban and small stream flooding.

Rivers of most concern are southwest WA & northwest OR rivers (Pacific, Clatsop, Tillamook counties).

Potential Impacts:
*Downed trees
*Power outages
*Flood potential

Still Unknown/Developing:
*Lots of uncertainty in where the core of heavy rain will set up and possibly become stationary
*Moderate to high confidence in rainfall amounts

In preparation for these events, please take a minute to check your emergency kit supplies and make sure you have provisions for a possible power outage.

Wind/Rain Storms this Coming Week

2011-11-19T17:17:00.000-08:00

NOAA has advised us of several storm systems that will be moving into the area next week leading up to Thanksgiving.

The main concern is coastal areas at this point. However, as these storms are still developing, there is a high degree of uncertainty regarding what their impact will be on inland areas.

Please read below for the full details of NOAA's weather statement. We will update our social media as we learn more.

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
244 PM PST SAT NOV 19 2011

ORZ001>014-WAZ019>023-039-040-200645-
NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-
COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON-
CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON-LOWER COLUMBIA-
GREATER PORTLAND METRO AREA-CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY-
SOUTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY-WESTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE-
NORTHERN OREGON CASCADE FOOTHILLS-NORTHERN OREGON CASCADES-
CASCADE FOOTHILLS IN LANE COUNTY-CASCADES IN LANE COUNTY-
UPPER HOOD RIVER VALLEY-SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADES-WILLAPA HILLS-
SOUTH WASHINGTON COAST-I-5 CORRIDOR IN COWLITZ COUNTY-
GREATER VANCOUVER AREA-SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADE FOOTHILLS-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK...
LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...FLORENCE...VERNONIA...JEWELL...TRASK...
GRANDE RONDE...TIDEWATER...SWISSHOME...ST. HELENS...CLATSKANIE...
HILLSBORO...PORTLAND...OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...SALEM...
MCMINNVILLE...DALLAS...EUGENE...CORVALLIS...ALBANY...HOOD RIVER...
CASCADE LOCKS...MULTNOMAH FALLS...SANDY...
SILVER FALLS STATE PARK...SWEET HOME...GOVERNMENT CAMP...
DETROIT...SANTIAM PASS...VIDA...LOWELL...COTTAGE GROVE...
MCKENZIE BRIDGE...OAKRIDGE...WILLAMETTE PASS...PARKDALE...ODELL...
COLDWATER RIDGE VISITORS CENTER...MOUNT ST. HELENS...FRANCES...
RYDERWOOD...RAYMOND...LONG BEACH...CATHLAMET...LONGVIEW...KELSO...
CASTLE ROCK...STEVENSON...SKAMANIA...VANCOUVER...BATTLE GROUND...
WASHOUGAL...TOUTLE...ARIEL...COUGAR


...TWO STRONG FRONTAL SYSTEMS BRING THE POTENTIAL FOR HIGH
WINDS AND HEAVY PRECIPITATION TO THE REGION ON MONDAY AND
TUESDAY...

A STRONG UPPER LEVEL LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM WILL APPROACH THE COAST
EARLY IN THE UPCOMING WEEK. THIS UPPER LOW IS EXPECTED TO DRIVE
TWO STRONG FRONTAL SYSTEMS INTO THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST ON MONDAY
AND TUESDAY. DEPENDING ON THE TRACK OF THESE FRONTAL SYSTEMS...THE
POTENTIAL EXISTS FOR VERY STRONG WINDS AND HEAVY RAINFALL TO
AFFECT SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST OREGON ON MONDAY AND
TUESDAY.

THE FIRST FRONTAL SYSTEM IS EXPECTED TO PUSH ONSHORE EARLY
MONDAY...BRINGING A BURST OF HEAVY PRECIPITATION AND GUSTY WINDS.
SNOW LEVELS WILL BE HIGH ENOUGH THAT PRECIPITATION WILL FALL
PRIMARILY AS RAIN EXCEPT IN THE CASCADES AND HIGHER ELEVATIONS OF
THE COAST RANGE. GUSTY WINDS ALSO LOOK LIKE AN
ISSUE...PARTICULARLY ALONG THE COAST AND IN THE COAST RANGE.

THE SECOND FRONTAL SYSTEM IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN PUSHING ONSHORE
DURING THE DAY ON TUESDAY. AT THIS POINT...THE TUESDAY SYSTEM
LOOKS STRONGER THAN THE ONE FOR MONDAY. IF ALL OF THE PIECES OF
THIS STORM COME TOGETHER...THE POTENTIAL EXISTS FOR VERY STRONG
WINDS FOR THE COAST AND COAST RANGE. THERE IS A CHANCE THAT GUSTY
WINDS MAY REACH THE VALLEY AS WELL. THE FRONT MAY STALL OVER THE
REGION THROUGH WEDNESDAY. IF THIS IS THE CASE...FAIRLY HEAVY
PRECIPITATION TOTALS ARE POSSIBLE ACROSS THE REGION. THIS COULD
LEAD TO FLOODING ISSUES IN SOME OF THE FASTER RESPONDING STREAMS
AND RIVERS IN THE REGION.

AT THIS POINT...THERE IS QUITE A BIT OF UNCERTAINTY IN THE
FORECAST FOR EARLY NEXT WEEK. THE POTENTIAL FOR SIGNIFICANT
WEATHER IMPACTS EXISTS...BUT IS FAR FROM CERTAIN.

PLEASE STAY TUNED OVER THE WEEKEND FOR WEATHER UPDATES. VISIT
WWW.WEATHER.GOV/PORTLAND FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Light Snow Possible Friday Night - Saturday Morning

2011-11-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

Light snow accumulations possible in higher elevations of the county late tonight and tomorrow morning. The snow level may fall to 500-1,000 feet--the lowest so far this season.

See below for full details from the National Weather Service.

WWUS86 KPQR 181750
SPSPQR

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
950 AM PST FRI NOV 18 2011

ORZ005>008-WAZ022-039-190600-
LOWER COLUMBIA-GREATER PORTLAND METRO AREA-
CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY-SOUTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY-I-
5 CORRIDOR IN COWLITZ COUNTY-GREATER VANCOUVER AREA-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ST. HELENS...CLATSKANIE...HILLSBORO...
PORTLAND...OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...SALEM...MCMINNVILLE...DALLAS...
EUGENE...CORVALLIS...ALBANY...LONGVIEW...KELSO...CASTLE ROCK...
VANCOUVER...BATTLE GROUND...WASHOUGAL
950 AM PST FRI NOV 18 2011

...SOME LIGHT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS POSSIBLE IN THE HIGHER ELEVATIONS AROUND THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY AND THE SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON INTERIOR VALLEYS LATE TONIGHT AND SATURDAY MORNING...

WITH SNOW LEVELS EXPECTED TO BE AT THEIR LOWEST SO FAR THIS
SEASON LATE TONIGHT AND EARLY SATURDAY...SOME LOCAL 1 OR 2 INCH
SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ARE POSSIBLE IN THE HILLS AROUND THE PORTLAND AND VANCOUVER METRO AREAS...THE LOWER COLUMBIA AND INTERSTATE 5 CORRIDOR OF SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON...AND THE CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN
WILLAMETTE VALLEY. THE SHOWERY NATURE OF THE PRECIPITATION WILL
MAKE THE ACCUMULATIONS A HIT OT MISS PROPOSITION AT ANY SPECIFIC
LOCATION.

A DISTURBANCE CURRENTLY OFF THE WASHINGTON COAST WILL BE SPREADING
THE SHOWERS ONSHORE TONIGHT AND EARLY SATURDAY. AS THIS FEATURE
MOVES THROUGH SNOW LEVELS WILL FALL TO BETWEEN 500 AND 1000 FEET
TONIGHT AND EARLY SATURDAY...AND POSSIBLY EVEN A LITTLE LOWER FROM
PORTLAND NORTH.

Winter Weather Advisory

2011-11-17T12:06:00.000-08:00

The national Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for snow that
is in effect from 4 PM tonight to 4 PM tomorrow. Anyone planning on travel or recreation in higher elevations should be prepared for winter conditions.

The full details of the advisory are listed below.

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR 259 PM PST WED NOV 16 2011

ORZ003-004-010-012-WAZ020-040-170700- /O.NEW.KPQR.WW.Y.0031.111118T0000Z-111119T0000Z/ COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON- CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON- NORTHERN OREGON CASCADE FOOTHILLS- CASCADE FOOTHILLS IN LANE COUNTY-WILLAPA HILLS- SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADE FOOTHILLS- INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...VERNONIA...SANDY...SWEET HOME... COTTAGE GROVE...TOUTLE...ARIEL...COUGAR 259 PM PST WED NOV 16 2011 ...

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THURSDAY TO 4 PM PST FRIDAY FOR THE NORTH AND CENTRAL OREGON COAST RANGE...WILLAPA HILLS AND CASCADE FOOTHILLS OF SOUTH WASHINGTON AND NORTH AND CENTRAL OREGON...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PORTLAND HAS ISSUED A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY FOR SNOW...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THURSDAY TO 4 PM PST FRIDAY.

* TIMING...A COOL UNSTABLE UPPER LEVEL TROUGH WILL DROP SOUTH AND BRING SIGNIFICANT ACCUMULATING SNOW TO THE CASCADE FOOTHILLS AND COAST RANGE BEGINNING LATE THURSDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH FRIDAY.

* ACCUMULATION/SNOW LEVELS...SNOW LEVELS WILL DROP TO 2000 FT LATE THURSDAY AFTERNOON AND 1000 TO 1500 FT THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY. POTENTIAL SNOW TOTALS FOR THIS 24 HOUR PERIOD RANGE FROM 4 TO 8 INCHES IN THE COAST RANGE TO 6 TO 10 INCHES IN THE FOOTHILLS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY FOR SNOW MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW WILL CAUSE PRIMARILY TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE PREPARED FOR SNOW COVERED ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE CAUTION WHILE DRIVING. &&

Nationwide EAS Test This Wednesday

2011-11-07T13:39:00.001-08:00

On Wednesday, November 9 at 11:00 a.m. Oregonians will hear on their radios and see on their televisions a test of the emergency alert system (EAS). The test will last approximately thirty (30) seconds. Normal programming will return following the test. This is a nationwide test organized by the FCC and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

This test will be different than those we have had in the past. The November 9 test will utilize a "live" national alert code, i.e., a coded message that will present itself as an actual emergency announcement, not a test. This is necessary in order to allow FCC and FEMA to test the actual working order reliability of legacy EAS equipment and the state of readiness of EAS operators and participants. Television stations are being encouraged to run a scroll at the bottom of the screen throughout the test stating that it is just a test.

Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM), FEMA, Broadcasters, NOAA and many other agencies are diligently trying to get the word to people that this is, in fact, a test. Often, citizens who are unsure of whether the alert is real or a test, place calls to 911 which tie up the phone lines for legitimate emergencies.

If anyone has questions about the test, please do NOT call 911. Please tell your neighbors and friends about this test so that Oregonians will be the most informed of all the states and will not be caught off guard by this unusual test of the EAS equipment.

More information can be found at www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm

Information courtesy of Oregon Emergency Management and FEMA.

Frost Advisory Tonight

2011-10-25T16:34:00.000-07:00

A frost advisory remains in effect from 1 AM to 9 AM Wednesday morning.

See the full text of the alert below.

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
300 PM PDT TUE OCT 25 2011

ORZ001>009-014-WAZ020>023-039-261230-
/O.CON.KPQR.FR.Y.0003.111026T0800Z-111026T1600Z/
NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-
COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON-
CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON-LOWER COLUMBIA-
GREATER PORTLAND METRO AREA-CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY-
SOUTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY-WESTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE-
UPPER HOOD RIVER VALLEY-WILLAPA HILLS-SOUTH WASHINGTON COAST-I-
5 CORRIDOR IN COWLITZ COUNTY-GREATER VANCOUVER AREA-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK...
NETARTS...PACIFIC CITY...LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...
CAPE FOULWEATHER...YACHATS...FLORENCE...VERNONIA...ST. HELENS...
HILLSBORO...PORTLAND...OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...TROUTDALE...
SALEM...MCMINNVILLE...EUGENE...CORVALLIS...ALBANY...HOOD RIVER...
CASCADE LOCKS...MULTNOMAH FALLS...CORBETT...ODELL...RAYMOND...
LONG BEACH...CAPE DISAPPOINTMENT...LONGVIEW...KELSO...STEVENSON...
SKAMANIA...VANCOUVER...BATTLE GROUND...CAMAS...WASHOUGAL
300 PM PDT TUE OCT 25 2011

..FROST ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 9 AM PDT
WEDNESDAY FOR SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST OREGON...

A FROST ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 9 AM PDT
WEDNESDAY.

A FROST ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 9 AM PDT
WEDNESDAY.

* TIMING: TONIGHT INTO WEDNESDAY MORNING.

* TEMPERATURE: LOWERING INTO THE UPPER 20S TO MID 30S OVERNIGHT.
COLDEST LOCATIONS WILL BE AWAY FROM URBAN AND COASTAL AREAS.

* LOCATIONS INCLUDE: HOOD RIVER...CASCADE LOCKS...MULTNOMAH
FALLS...CORBETT...EUGENE...CORVALLIS...ALBANY... VERNONIA...
LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...CAPE FOULWEATHER... YACHATS...
FLORENCE...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK... NETARTS...
PACIFIC CITY...SALEM...MCMINNVILLE...HILLSBORO... PORTLAND...
OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...TROUTDALE...ST. HELENS...
VANCOUVER... BATTLE GROUND...CAMAS...WASHOUGAL...ODELL...
LONGVIEW...KELSO... STEVENSON...SKAMANIA...RAYMOND... LONG
BEACH...CAPE DISAPPOINTMENT

* IMPACTS: THOSE WITH SENSITIVE VEGETATION MAY WANT TO TAKE
NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS TO PROTECT THEIR PLANTS SUCH AS
COVERING THEM WITH SHEETS OR MOVING THEM INDOORS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A FROST ADVISORY MEANS THAT FROST IS POSSIBLE. SENSITIVE OUTDOOR
PLANTS MAY BE KILLED IF LEFT UNCOVERED.

Frost Advisory

2011-10-24T14:48:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again. We may have our first frost tonight. Be sure to bring in any sensistive outdoor plants.

Here is the full text of the frost advisory from the National Weather Service.

WWUS76 KPQR 242138
NPWPQR

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
238 PM PDT MON OCT 24 2011

ORZ001>009-014-WAZ020>023-039-251245-
/O.NEW.KPQR.FR.Y.0002.111025T1000Z-111025T1600Z/
/O.NEW.KPQR.FR.Y.0003.111026T0800Z-111026T1600Z/
NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-
COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON-
CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON-LOWER COLUMBIA-
GREATER PORTLAND METRO AREA-CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY-
SOUTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY-WESTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE-
UPPER HOOD RIVER VALLEY-WILLAPA HILLS-SOUTH WASHINGTON COAST-I-
5 CORRIDOR IN COWLITZ COUNTY-GREATER VANCOUVER AREA-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK...
NETARTS...PACIFIC CITY...LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...
CAPE FOULWEATHER...YACHATS...FLORENCE...VERNONIA...ST. HELENS...
HILLSBORO...PORTLAND...OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...TROUTDALE...
SALEM...MCMINNVILLE...EUGENE...CORVALLIS...ALBANY...HOOD RIVER...
CASCADE LOCKS...MULTNOMAH FALLS...CORBETT...ODELL...RAYMOND...
LONG BEACH...CAPE DISAPPOINTMENT...LONGVIEW...KELSO...STEVENSON...
SKAMANIA...VANCOUVER...BATTLE GROUND...CAMAS...WASHOUGAL
238 PM PDT MON OCT 24 2011

..FROST ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 3 AM TO 9 AM PDT TUESDAY AND FROM
1 AM TO 9 AM PDT WEDNESDAY FOR SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST
OREGON...COAST AND INTERIOR LOWLAND AREAS...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PORTLAND HAS ISSUED A FROST
ADVISORY...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 3 AM TO 9 AM PDT TUESDAY. A
FROST ADVISORY HAS ALSO BEEN ISSUED FROM 1 AM TO 9 AM PDT
WEDNESDAY.

* TIMING: TONIGHT AND AGAIN TUESDAY NIGHT INTO WEDNESDAY MORNING.

* TEMPERATURE: TONIGHT...MID TO UPPER 30S. TUESDAY NIGHT...COLDER MID TO UPPER 30S ON THE COAST...AND LOWER TO MID 30S INLAND.

* LOCATIONS INCLUDE: HOOD RIVER...CASCADE LOCKS...CORBETT...EUGENE
CORVALLIS...ALBANY...VERNONIA...LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...YACHATS
FLORENCE...ASTORIA...TILLAMOOK...PACIFIC CITY...SALEM...MCMINNVILLE
HILLSBORO...PORTLAND...GRESHAM...ST. HELENS...VANCOUVER...BATTLE
GROUND...CAMAS...KELSO...STEVENSON...RAYMOND...LONG BEACH

* IMPACTS: THOSE WITH SENSITIVE VEGETATION MAY WANT TO TAKE
NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS TO PROTECT THEIR PLANTS SUCH AS COVERING
THEM WITH SHEETS OR MOVING THEM INDOORS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A FROST ADVISORY MEANS THAT FROST IS POSSIBLE. SENSITIVE OUTDOOR
PLANTS MAY BE KILLED IF LEFT UNCOVERED.

Winter Weather Awareness Week

2011-10-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

October 16-22 is Winter Weather Awareness Week.

This is an excellent time for all individuals, families, businesses, schools, radio and television stations to review their winter weather preparedness plans. It is especially important for persons new to the region to become familiar with NOAA's National Weather Service Watch and Warning definitions, as well as winter weather safety procedures.

Learn more at http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/pqr/winterawareweek.php.

Winter in the Pacific Northwest can be quite hazardous, with snow and ice in the mountains, heavy rains on the coast, and even biting cold with dangerous wind chill across the Columbia Basin. All areas of the Pacific Northwest have experienced nearly every type of winter weather possible, from blizzards to ice, from flooding rains to bitter cold.

Each year, dozens of Amercians die due to prolonged exposure to the cold. Major winter storms can last several days, and be accompanied by strong winds, freezing rain or sleet, heavy snowfall, cold temperatures, and various forms of flooding. Heavy snow in the mountains is important for the skiing industry, and for filling reservoirs. However, these storms also produce travel dangers and create life threatening conditions.

To help our communities learn more about these dangers, NOAA's National Weather Service will issue the following Public Information Statements throughout the week to give safety information, and help you know how to respond when severe weather threatens:

October 16 : Introduction to Winter Weather and Awareness
October 17 : Winter Weather Safety...Terminology, and Dissemination
October 18 : Winter Weather Outlooks, Watches, Warnings and Advisories
October 19 : Blizzards, Snow & Ice Storms, Wind Chill, and Avalanches
October 20 : Floods
October 21 : Windstorms (east and west of Cascades)
October 22 : Summary of Winter Weather and Awareness

Remember, in times of hazardous winter weather, you can get all these vital NOAA/National Weather Service messages via NOAA Weather Radio, your favorite local media, or through NOAA's National Weather Service websites.

Disaster Assistance Available For Small Businesses

2011-10-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

Due to freezing temperatures, cool spring temperatures and excessive rain earlier this year, many small businesses suffered economic losses. The Small Business Administration is now offering low-interest disaster loans to financially-impacted businesses and private, non-profit organizations.

Here is the full text of the press release:

Disaster News

Economic Injury Loans for Small Businesses

Release Date: September 22, 2011 Media Contact: Richard Jenkins

Release Number: OR 12846-01 Phone: (916) 735-1500

Disaster Assistance Available for Small Businesses

Sacramento, CA – Small, nonfarm businesses in the following 14 Oregon counties and one neighboring county in Washington are now eligible to apply for low‑interest disaster loans from the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA). “These loans offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by freezing temperatures, cool spring temperatures and excessive rain in the primary counties that occurred February 1 through May 31, 2011,” announced Alfred E. Judd, Director of SBA’s Disaster Field Operations Center-West.

Primary Oregon counties: Wasco and Washington;

Neighboring Oregon counties: Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Gilliam, Hood River, Jefferson, Marion, Multnomah, Sherman, Tillamook, Wheeler and Yamhill;

Neighboring Washington county: Klickitat.

“SBA eligibility covers both the economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers that have suffered agricultural production losses caused by the disaster and businesses directly impacted by the disaster,” Judd said.

Small, nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private, nonprofit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred.

“Eligibility for these loans is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. These loans have an interest rate of 4% for businesses and 3% for private, nonprofit organizations, a maximum term of 30 years, and are available to small businesses and most private, nonprofits without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship,” Judd said.

By law, SBA makes EIDLs available when the U. S. Secretary of Agriculture designates an agricultural disaster. Secretary Tom Vilsack declared this disaster at the request of Governor John Kitzhaber.

Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster assistance. Agricultural enterprises should contact the Farm Services Agency (FSA) about the U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

Disaster loan information and application forms are also available from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling SBA toll-free at (800) 659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call (800) 877-8339.

The deadline to apply for these loans is May 15, 2012.

For more information, visit SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov.

SBA Field Operations Center - West, P.O. Box 419004, Sacramento, CA 95841

"Oregon Business" magazine features article on Vernonia

2011-10-12T17:09:00.000-07:00

This month's edition of Oregon Business magazine features an in-depth article on Vernonia's recovery. The article highlights efforts being made by locals who want to see the city thrive again and the creative approach they are taking. The new school building is environmentally friendly and will put revenue back into Vernonia's economy.

Click here to read the full article and find out more.

Used Cell Phones Needed

2011-10-03T11:16:00.000-07:00

Have you upgraded your phone recently? If so, the the District Attorney's Crime Victims' Program could use your old one.

Most non-profits use donated cell phones as part of a safety plan, for 911 calls only.

A victim's need for a phone goes beyond safety. Telephone numbers are needed for follow up services, release notifications, medical appointments, counseling, housing, and accessing community resources.

At this time the program has grant funds available to provide pre-paid minutes for donated cell phones. If you have a working cell phone you are no longer using, please consider donating the phone to the Crime Victims' program.

Please drop off used cell phones and chargers at the Columbia County DA's office, which is on the third floor of the new courthouse.

Information provided courtesy of Janice Flatersack. Please contact her if you have questions regarding your donation (503) 366-3914 or Janice.Faltersack@co.columbia.or.us.

Contagion Fact or Fiction?

2011-09-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

Warner Brothers recently released the movie Contagion, a fictional drama that portrays CDC and other U.S. and international partners responding to an emerging infectious disease outbreak. The film is riveting and takes viewers through the emergence of a new virus to a full-blown pandemic.

While the plot makes for a good story with plenty of drama, suspense and action, how much of the movie is factual and how much is fiction?

To answer that question, the CDC has come up with a Q &A page on their website. Click here to read more about fact and fiction in the film as well as what the CDC does every day to combat emerging illnesses.

New FEMA Apps Available

2011-09-28T13:25:00.000-07:00

FEMA has released new apps and a text messaging service to help you prepare for and stay informed during a disaster.

The FEMA app lets you:

Check off the items you have in your family’s emergency kit,
Enter your family emergency meeting locations,
Review safety tips on what to do before, during and after a disaster,
View a map of shelters and disaster recovery centers across the U.S., and
Read FEMA's latest blog posts.

The app is available in the Android market. An app for Blackberry version 6 devices and iPhones will be available in the coming weeks.

FEMA has also launched a text message alert system.

Text PREPARE to 43362 (4FEMA) to sign up to receive monthly disaster safety tips
Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345)

(For availability of shelters and services, contact your local emergency management agency.)
Text DRC + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest disaster recovery center in your area (for example, if you live in St. Helens with a Zip Code of 97051, you’d text DRC 97051).

Click here to see a video of the app in action and to read more about these new services.

Thunderstorms Possible This Afternoon and Evening

2011-08-24T07:49:00.000-07:00

The National Weather Service has issued a special weather statement regarding thunderstorms in our area.

Thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and tonight over the south Washington and northwest Oregon Cascades and possibly adjacent valleys.

Here is the full text of the warning:

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR 453 AM PDT WED AUG 24 2011 ORZ003-004-006>014-WAZ019-023-039-040-250400- COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON- CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON-GREATER PORTLAND METRO AREA- CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY-SOUTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY- WESTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE-NORTHERN OREGON CASCADE FOOTHILLS- NORTHERN OREGON CASCADES-CASCADE FOOTHILLS IN LANE COUNTY- CASCADES IN LANE COUNTY-UPPER HOOD RIVER VALLEY- SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADES-GREATER VANCOUVER AREA- SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADE FOOTHILLS- INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...VERNONIA...JEWELL...TRASK... GRANDE RONDE...TIDEWATER...SWISSHOME...HILLSBORO...PORTLAND... OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...SALEM...MCMINNVILLE...DALLAS...EUGENE... CORVALLIS...ALBANY...HOOD RIVER...CASCADE LOCKS... MULTNOMAH FALLS...SANDY...SILVER FALLS STATE PARK...SWEET HOME... GOVERNMENT CAMP...DETROIT...SANTIAM PASS...VIDA...LOWELL... COTTAGE GROVE...MCKENZIE BRIDGE...OAKRIDGE...WILLAMETTE PASS... PARKDALE...ODELL...COLDWATER RIDGE VISITORS CENTER... MOUNT ST. HELENS...STEVENSON...SKAMANIA...VANCOUVER... BATTLE GROUND...WASHOUGAL...TOUTLE...ARIEL...COUGAR 453 AM PDT WED AUG 24 2011

...THUNDERSTORMS ARE EXPECTED THIS AFTERNOON AND TONIGHT OVER THE SOUTH WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST OREGON CASCADES AND POSSIBLY OVER THE ADJACENT VALLEYS...

VERY WARM WEATHER COMBINED WITH HIGHER THAN NORMAL DEW POINTS AND A WEATHER DISTURBANCE NEAR THE CALIFORNIA COAST THAT WILL BE SPREADING SOME MOISTURE ACROSS WESTERN OREGON THIS AFTERNOON AND TONIGHT ARE EXPECTED CAUSE THUNDERSTORMS TO DEVELOP THIS AFTERNOON AND CONTINUE THROUGH MUCH OF TONIGHT.

THE STRONGEST STORMS ARE EXPECTED TO DEVELOP IN THE OREGON CASCADES AND CASCADE FOOTHILLS. GUSTY WINDS TO 40 MPH OR HIGHER AND HAIL ARE POSSIBLE WITH THE STRONGEST STORMS.

THUNDERSTORMS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE THIS AFTERNOON AND OVERNIGHT TONIGHT OVER THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY...IN THE OREGON COAST RANGE... AND NORTH THROUGH CLARK COUNTY INTO THE SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADES AND FOOTHILLS.

BE SURE TO TAKE COVER SHOULD THREATENING WEATHER APPROACH YOUR LOCATION TODAY OR TONIGHT.

Please check the National Weather Service's Portland Office page for developing information.

Disaster Preparedness, Mitigation, Response and Recovery Workshop in Clackamas

2011-08-23T14:14:00.000-07:00

To honor the 10th anniversary of 9/11, there will be a day of Disaster Preparedness, Mitigation, Response and Recovery Workshops at New Hope Community Church in Clackamas from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Sign up to help hone your skills in building community resilience and increase your effectiveness in all phases of emergency management. This workshop is open to all.

Register to attend this disaster training and participate in recognizing the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 in a meaningful, proactive and life-saving way. Click here to register: http://disastertraining.eventbrite.com

New Hope Community church is located at 11731 SE Stevens Rd, Portland, OR 97086

Storm King Incident Survivor to Speak at Scappoose High

2011-08-23T12:53:00.000-07:00

Kim Lightley is a surviving member of the US Forest Service Prineville Hotshots from the July 6th, 1994 Storm King Mountain Fire in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

Please join us for this presentation as Kim describes her experiences that day, and the steps she took to gain strength and overcome the trauma of being a surviving co-worker. The presentation will take place this Thursday, August 25th at 7pm in the Scappoose High School Auditorium.

Please contact Division Chief Ron Youngberg if you have questions at (503) 397-2990.

This talk is geared toward public safety, but interested individuals are welcome to attend as well.

National Weather Service Open House this Saturday

2011-08-23T12:25:00.000-07:00

Ever wanted to see where our weather watches and warnings are issued from? Curious about what tools the National Weather Services uses to come up with their forecasts? Well, this Saturday you have the opportunity to find out.

The National Weather Service is hosting an open house for the public at their office in Portland this Saturday, August 27th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

You can drop in anytime during the event and stay as long as you want. The NWS will have 10-15 minute presentations at the top and bottom of every hour (e.g., 11:00, 11:30, etc) and offer tours of the facility. You're invited to discuss topics of interest to you with staff on hand.

Some of the areas you can tour and topics discussed or demonstrated are:

Weather Satellite Imagery
Doppler Weather Radar
NOAA Weather Radio (What is it and why do I need one)
Real-time River Stage Displays
Getting Weather from the Internet

Please drop in and say hello to our partners at the NWS. The address is below.

NWS Portland
5241 NE 122nd Ave
Portland, OR 97230

E. Coli Strawberry Sales Locations

2011-08-11T16:16:00.000-07:00

The Oregon Department of Agriculture has released a list of locations that sold strawberries tainted with E. coli.

Click here to view the list: http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/strawberries.shtml

Three of the locations were in Columbia County.

Sixteen people in Washington, Clatsop, Multnomah counties and Northwestern Oregon have been infected in the past month. The farm that grew the berries no longer has any of the of them on the market.

Anyone who thinks they might have tainted berries is encouraged to throw them out if the berries were purchased during the dates outlined in the list.

Scappoose-Vernonia Road Closure

2011-07-18T09:10:00.000-07:00

Scappoose-Vernonia Road closure begins today, July 18th, and lasts through Friday July 29th. There is no local detour. Alternate travel routes are Apiary Road and the old Pittsburg Road. Please be aware that the old Pittsburg Road is a gravel road.

Ready Your Business

2011-06-07T13:37:00.000-07:00

Did you know that up to 40% of businesses affected by a disaster never reopen?

If you own a business, know someone who does or would like to see your workplace be more prepared for disasters, FEMA has designed a webpage to help.

FEMA's Ready Business site has information and free resources to prepare your business, workplace and staff for the next disaster. Just click the blue text to go there.

Upcoming Out-of-County Classes

2011-05-24T16:49:00.000-07:00

Our disaster preparedness partners have informed us about several upcoming training opportunities.

CERT Train the Trainer- Hosted by Marylhurst College, August 3-5th

Mt Hood Community College, Disaster Skills Training and Practical Exercise series. MRC members are strongly encouraged to attend as well as CERT to attend (this training would qualify as a CERT Practical), Sunday, June 19th (Fathers Day) from 0800-1230

A Moulage Class (realistic injury creation) - Same day as the Mt Hood Community College Disaster Training listed above - Sunday, June 19th (Fathers Day) from 0800-1230 (students will have to choose one or the other).

Registration is open to anyone. Please see the flyers below for specifics on each class.

High River Levels--Use Caution Around Water

2011-05-23T15:00:00.001-07:00

The National Weather Service (NWS) has informed us that the Columbia River will continue to run high for the rest of the week into the weekend, and will likely reach flood stage. However, there is no cause for worry at this time.

The upcoming Memorial Day weekend means outdoor recreation for many people. However, with high, swift river conditions, it's important to use extra caution around water. The water level will be higher up on banks and and move faster, carrying debris. If you plan on being near the Columbia this week or weekend, be aware of what the river is doing and watch your footing around the water.

Columbia County Emergency Management is working with the NWS to closely monitor the river levels and we will issue updates as necessary.

You can stay informed of river conditions via the NWS Northwest River Forecast Center website.

Zombie Apocalypse

2011-05-19T17:00:00.001-07:00

Yes, that's right. Now even the CDC is encouraging folks to get ready for when the brain-eaters attack. Check out the CDC's page for how you can prepare for the Zombie Apocalypse and other, not so far-fetched, disasters. Click on the picture below to go there.

31st Anniversary of Mt. St. Helens Eruption

2011-05-18T11:26:00.000-07:00

Thirty one years ago Mt. St. Helens reminded the world of the very real power and threat of volcanoes.

If you weren't alive to see the blast, or just want to relive it, KGW has compiled a page of video clips and photos of the eruption and subsequent ones in the years since. Click here to visit the KGW page.

The Boston Globe has a page with additional, poignant shots of the eruption and aftermath. Click here to view them.

Some of those who lost their lives in the eruption were representatives of a volunteer group that EM works with very closely-amateur radio operators. To read more about the ham radio operators that died in the eruption, click here. Their story is the third entry on the page.

Finally, do you know what to do the next time a local volcano erupts? Our local Oregon Red Cross has a wealth of information on how to prepare. Click here to visit the Red Cross page.

High Wind Warning for Higher Elevations: 4-25-11

2011-04-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

High Wind Warning in effect until 5 PM this evening for the higher elevations of Columbia County: Vernonia, Mist, Birkenfeld, etc. For more, please visit http://weather.gov/portland .

Thanks,

Columbia County Emergency Management

+++++++++++

High Wind Warning

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
520 AM PDT MON APR 25 2011

.A RAPIDLY DEVELOPING CENTER OF LOW PRESSURE APPROACHING THE
COAST IS PROJECTED TO MOVE ASHORE OVER THE CENTRAL OREGON COAST
THEN TRACK TO THE NORTH EAST THIS MORNING. EXPECT A FAIRLY SUDDEN
SURGE OF WIND TO PUSH ONSHORE WITH AN ASSOCIATED FRONT EARLY THIS
MORNING...EVEN AFFECTING INLAND AREAS BY MID MORNING. WITH LEAVES
DEVELOPING ON TREES AND VERY SOGGY GROUND...TREES AND POWER LINES
WILL BE MORE PRONE TO BEING DOWNED BY THE STRONG AND GUSTY WINDS.

ORZ001>004-252100-
/O.CON.KPQR.HW.W.0012.000000T0000Z-110426T0000Z/
NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-
COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON-
CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK...
NETARTS...PACIFIC CITY...LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...
CAPE FOULWEATHER...YACHATS...FLORENCE...VERNONIA
520 AM PDT MON APR 25 2011

...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 5 PM PDT THIS
AFTERNOON FOR THE NORTH AND CENTRAL OREGON COAST AND COAST RANGE...

A HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 5 PM PDT THIS
AFTERNOON.

* WINDS: EXPECT SOUTH WINDS 35 TO 45 MPH WITH GUSTS OF 55 TO 65
 MPH AT HEADLANDS AND BEACHES AND ON EXPOSED RIDGETOPS OF THE
 COAST RANGE. THIS PARTICULAR STORM MAY ALSO AFFECT SOME OF THE
 COAST RANGE VALLEYS WITH POTENTIALLY DAMAGING WINDS.

* TIMING: STRONG WINDS DEVELOP EARLY THIS MORNING AND CONTINUE
 FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE MORNING...WITH VERY BLUSTERY
 CONDITIONS PERSISTING THROUGH MUCH OF THE AFTERNOON.

* LOCATIONS INCLUDE: VERNONIA...LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...CAPE
 FOULWEATHER...YACHATS...FLORENCE...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...
 TILLAMOOK...NETARTS...PACIFIC CITY

* IMPACTS: WITH SPRING LEAVES DEVELOPING ON TREES AND VERY
 SOGGY GROUND...TREES AND POWER LINES WILL BE MORE PRONE THAN
 USUAL TO BEING DOWNED BY THE STRONG AND GUSTY WINDS. DRIVING
 MAY ALSO BECOME DIFFICULT DUE TO THE STRONG AND GUSTY
 WINDS... ESPECIALLY IN HIGH PROFILE VEHICLES.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A HIGH WIND WARNING MEANS A HAZARDOUS HIGH WIND EVENT IS EXPECTED
OR OCCURRING. SUSTAINED WIND SPEEDS OF AT LEAST 40 MPH OR GUSTS
OF 58 MPH OR MORE CAN LEAD TO PROPERTY DAMAGE.

Cooking in the Dark Class

2011-04-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

How can you and your family stay at home and live comfortably without electricity and running water for at least 2 weeks?

Come to the Cooking in the Dark seminar on Monday, May 9, 2011 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM to find out.

Other topics discussed will include:
*Myths and facts about water storage and purification
*Safe long term light options
*Cooking options for inside and outside
*Meal planning for 2 weeks
*Shelter-in-place procedures

To register email Holly at: hollyh427@gmail.com

There is a $5 charge for this class.

This class will be held at Best Western, 585 S Columbia River Hwy., St. Helens, OR.

Facebook Page

2011-04-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

Interested in seeing pictures of some of our events or learning more about what we do? Check out our Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Columbia-County-Emergency-Management/134474983641

Shelter Class on April 30 CANCELED

2011-04-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

Columbia County Emergency Management has CANCELED the Shelter Operations class set for April 30th in St. Helens due to low registration. For questions, please call 503-366-3905.

Portland EM Hiring Public Information Officer

2011-04-18T14:40:00.001-07:00

The Portland Office of Emergency Management is hiring a PIO. Click here for details - http://www.portlandonline.com/bhr/jobs/260/Public-Information-Officer. The deadline to apply is Monday, May 9th at 4:30 p.m. Feel free to forward to your networks.

Thanks,

Dan Douthit

Interim Public Information Officer

Portland Office of Emergency Management (Portland OEM)

1001 SW Fifth Avenue, Suite 650

Portland, Oregon 97204

503-823-3928 work

503-793-1650 cell

dan.douthit@portlandoregon.gov

http://portlandoregon.gov/oem

http://twitter.com/portlandOEM

FEMA Online Learning Offline

2011-04-08T14:01:00.000-07:00

The current national budget Continuing Resolution for this fiscal year expires tonight at midnight. No new budget has been approved, and DHS, who FEMA falls under, is listed as working, but under limited capacity. As a result, FEMA online learning has been shut down until a new budget is approved. This will affect your ability to complete online classes needed for NIMS and other certifications.

This is the page you'll see if you do try to access FEMA's online learning.

http://training.fema.gov/shutdown.html

For information on which other federal government agencies will be affected by a shut down click the following:

http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/government-shutdown-agencies-stay-open-close/story?id=13309873&page=1

Restrictions on Scappoose-Vernonia Road

2011-04-08T09:07:00.000-07:00

On Scappoose-Vernonia, at Milepost 8 (where the slide is located) there is now a 15 Ton weight limit. Empty trucks are OK, but NOT loaded trucks. The weight restriction only applies to that section of Scappoose-Vernonia

The north (west bound) lane has dropped about 5 ft for about a 100 ft stretch, and continues to creep down a very steep hill side. We have restricted the road to one lane at that location. If the condition worsens, we may need to restrict truck traffic from using Scappoose Vernonia Road. We have some funds to do repairs, but due to contracts and permits, work will probably not start until July.

--Info Courtesy of Columbia County Roads Department

Shelter Class: April 30th

2011-04-07T11:18:00.001-07:00

Shelter Operations and Shelter Simulation

Date: Saturday, April 30, 2011 - 09:00 - 16:00

Join us for Shelter Operation and Shelter Simulation!

When: Saturday April 30, 2011 from 9 AM to 4 PM

Where: Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Training Room, 58443 Old Portland Road, St. Helens

To Register: Complete your registration on our Survey Monkey registration page: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/N9SK9QT or Call Emergency Management at 503-366-3931

Cost: Free

Length: 7 hours

Special Weather Statement for Columbia County: April 5, 2011

2011-04-05T13:53:00.000-07:00

Snow is possible (yes, snow) in Columbia County tonight through Thursday. Please make sure to travel safely. You may check state road conditions by calling 511 or going to http://tripcheck.com .

--Columbia County Emergency Management

Special Weather Statement

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
405 AM PDT TUE APR 5 2011

ORZ003>008-010-012-014-WAZ020-022-039-040-052300-
COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON-
CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON-LOWER COLUMBIA-
GREATER PORTLAND METRO AREA-CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY-
SOUTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY-NORTHERN OREGON CASCADE FOOTHILLS-
CASCADE FOOTHILLS IN LANE COUNTY-UPPER HOOD RIVER VALLEY-
WILLAPA HILLS-I-5 CORRIDOR IN COWLITZ COUNTY-
GREATER VANCOUVER AREA-SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADE FOOTHILLS-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...VERNONIA...JEWELL...TRASK...
GRANDE RONDE...TIDEWATER...SWISSHOME...ST. HELENS...CLATSKANIE...
HILLSBORO...PORTLAND...OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...SALEM...
MCMINNVILLE...DALLAS...EUGENE...CORVALLIS...ALBANY...SANDY...
SILVER FALLS STATE PARK...SWEET HOME...VIDA...LOWELL...
COTTAGE GROVE...PARKDALE...ODELL...FRANCES...RYDERWOOD...
LONGVIEW...KELSO...CASTLE ROCK...VANCOUVER...BATTLE GROUND...
WASHOUGAL...TOUTLE...ARIEL...COUGAR
405 AM PDT TUE APR 5 2011

...SNOW LIKELY IN THE CASCADE FOOTHILLS AND THE COASTAL MOUNTAINS
OF SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST OREGON LATE TONIGHT THROUGH
THURSDAY...

...UNSEASONABLY LOW SNOW LEVELS OVER SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND
NORTHWEST OREGON LATE TONIGHT THROUGH THURSDAY...

A LARGE COLD AREA OF LOW PRESSURE OVER THE NORTHEAST PACIFIC AND
THE GULF OF ALASKA WILL SPREAD UNSEASONABLY COLD AIR OVER
SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST OREGON TONIGHT CONTINUING
THROUGH THURSDAY.

SNOW LEVELS WILL LOWER TO AROUND 1500 FEET WEDNESDAY...AND WILL
LOCALLY BE IN THE 1000 TO 1500 FOOT RANGE AT TIMES THROUGH
THURSDAY. THIS WILL BRING SNOW TO THE CASCADE FOOTHILLS...THE
COASTAL MOUNTAINS AND THE UPPER HOOD RIVER VALLEY BY WEDNESDAY
MORNING...CONTINUING THROUGH THURSDAY. FROM 3 TO 8 INCHES OF SNOW
IS POSSIBLE IN THE FOOTHILLS AND THE COASTAL MOUNTAINS WEDNESDAY
THROUGH THURSDAY...WITH A FEW INCHES POSSIBLE IN THE COAST RANGE
PASSES AND IN THE UPPER HOOD RIVER VALLEY.

EVEN A LIGHT DUSTING OF SNOW IS POSSIBLE IN THE HIGHER HILLS
AROUND THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY...THE INTERSTATE 5 CORRIDOR THROUGH
SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND THE WESTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE.


$$

FOR ADDITIONAL WEATHER INFORMATION...VISIT OUR WEB SITE AT
WWW.WEATHER.GOV/PORTLAND

Free Red Cross Preparedness Seminars

2011-03-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

With the Japan earthquake making headlines, many Oregonians are wondering whether they'd be prepared if such a disaster were to strike right here at home.

To address questions, the Oregon Red Cross is hosting four free preparedness classes where you can learn how to get ready for unforeseen disasters. Please join us and invite your friends, family, or neighbors, to come on Wednesday, March 30th or April 6th at 5pm or 7pm while the Red Cross addresses questions and gives people the skills and information to get a kit, make a plan, and be informed.

For more information please refer to the flyer found on the Red Cross website: http://www.oregonredcross.org/pdf/Earthquake%20Preparedness%20Classes.pdf

Japan Radiation Update from CHD Public Health

2011-03-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

All,

Below is a summation of talking points about radiation provided by our Health Officer, Dr. Vines. Please note the highlighted update regarding use of potassium iodine.

We recommend you continue to check the state Public Health Division’s “Current Hazard” page (link listed below) for updates related to Japan’s nuclear situation. To avoid filling your mailbox with duplicate emails we will continue to relay updated critical information as needed. Feel free share this information with others.

· Oregon Public Health closely monitoring information on the radiation release reported in Japan.

· According to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission the incident does not pose a radiation health threat to Oregonians. Given the thousands of miles between the two countries, Hawaii, Alaska, the U.S. Territories and the U.S. West Coast are not expected to experience any harmful levels of radioactivity. This is because even large amounts of radioactive material released would be diluted through wind and air streams before reaching the West Cost of the United States.

· Public health officials monitor information from the Environmental Protection Agency's network of highly sensitive radiation detectors, which provide hourly reports of ambient radiation. The monitors are part of a national network run by the Environmental Protection Agency called "RadNet." There are two monitors in Oregon, one in Corvallis and one in Portland.

· There have been no elevated radiation readings detected in Oregon and air samples remain normal. Given the current size of the release and the distance from Oregon, we do not expect that to change and there is no public health risk to the state. We are also in contact with our federal partners including the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

· Potassium Iodine or KI has been in the media as a pill that provides thyroid protection from radioactive material. It is only needed in individuals who are 10-12 miles from the source of an uncontrolled release of radioactivity. The federal government has stockpiles of KI, but there are no plans to use it because of the very large distance between Japan and Oregon. Public health does not recommend using KI and urges caution for pregnant or lactating women, children, and kidney disease patients.

More information at http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/CurrentHazards/Pages/index.aspx which is updated regularly.
Information line- 1-877-290-6767

Let us know if you have additional questions or concerns!

Best regards,

Anne

Anne Parrott, M.S.

Coordinator: Public Health Preparedness

Columbia County Medical Reserve Corps

Columbia County Push Partner Registry

Columbia County SNS

Columbia Health District - Public Health Authority

Office: 503-397-4651 x2022

Disaster Anniversaries and Reflection

2011-03-28T08:14:00.001-07:00

We have a number of major disaster anniversaries in March that spur us to think about why emergency preparedness exists. Here are some past incidents that happened in March and what has come out of them:

* Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire (New York City, March 25, 1911): a fire at a factory killed 146 and injured 71, mostly due to a lack of safety plans and escape routes. This tragedy led to a number of changes, including requirements for fire exits and proper escapes for taller buildings.

* Anchorage, Alaska Earthquake and Tsunami (1964): this 9.2 magnitude quake, the second-largest in recorded history, made the Pacific Northwest more aware to the dangers of a tsunami as its waves swept coastal beaches and killed several people. The event would lead the federal government to assist more with major disaster recovery and gave coastal areas awareness to the need for tsunami planning (although it would take more recent events, such as the Indonesian and Japanese quakes and tsunamis, to reinforce the notion).

* Three-Mile-Island Nuclear Plant Partial Meltdown (March 28, 1979): this nuclear disaster, which today pales in comparison to events at Chernobyl and in Japan, really shook the world into considering the worst-case scenarios for nuclear plants and forced emergency managers and plant operators to take more time in properly planning for these types of events. No deaths directly came from this event, although legal claims have been made that the release of radioactive materials did have an effect on the health of some in the area, especially children.

It should not take people dying to get us to wake up and realize that we must plan for the worst while hoping for the best. It is the job of Columbia County Emergency Management to help make sure our community is ready for whatever may come our way. A little money and time spent now saves lots of money and lives down the road.

Emergency planning at home or work does not take that much time to do--it just takes a little effort! For more on how to be ready for whatever comes your way, visit http://www.ready.gov .

Announcing: Prepare to Be Your Own Hero Class

2011-03-25T16:22:00.000-07:00

With seeing the reality of what an earthquake can do in Japan, the preparedness information in this seminar is priceless.

Please RSVP for this much asked for seminar which is open to CERT, Citizen Corps, and the public.

What: Prepare to Be Your Own Hero

Topics include:

1. Building an Evacuation Kit

2. Personal Evacuation Procedures

3. Individual and Family Evacuation Planning

4. Family Reunification Planning

5. Evacuation with Pets

When: Monday, April 18th, 2011 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Where: Best Western Oak Meadows Inn

585 S. Columbia River Hwy.

St. Helens, OR 97051

Cost: $5

* All who attend will receive a $5 voucher towards any emergency

supplies they order.

RSVP: Holly, St. Helens CERT Coordinator, at: hollyh427@yahoo.com

Lewis and Clark Bridge Delays

2011-03-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

Expect some delays, even stoppages, on the Lewis and Clark bridge over the next few months.

Lewis and Clark Bridge painting will resume Monday, expect minor delays

http://tdn.com/news/local/article_e06dedf4-51c8-11e0-95d4-001cc4c03286.html

Oregon Public Health Current Hazards Page

2011-03-18T08:53:00.000-07:00

The State of Oregon's Public Health Division has started a "current hazards" webpage to discuss things such as the radiation issue in Japan and other health issues.

The page is at:

http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/CurrentHazards/Pages/index.aspx

Upcoming Classes

2011-03-16T16:37:00.000-07:00

We have some exciting classes coming up. Sign up now!

Flood Fight Design and Planning Workshop

Date: Monday, March 28, 2011 - 18:00 - 20:30

Join us for the Flood Fight Design and Planning Workshop hosted by Les Miller, P.E., Flood Preparedness Program Manager from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District.

When: Monday March 28, 2011 from 6 PM to 8:30 PM
Where: Columbia 911, 58611 McNulty Way, St. Helens, OR
To Register: Complete your registration on our Survey Monkey registration page: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/NWTDSGL
Cost: Free

Shelter Operations and Shelter Simulation

Date: Saturday, April 30, 2011 - 09:00 - 16:00

Join us for Shelter Operation and Shelter Simulation!

When: Saturday April 30, 2011 from 9 AM to 4 PM

Where: Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Training Room, 58443 Old Portland Road, St. Helens

To Register: Complete your registration on our Survey Monkey registration page: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/N9SK9QT or Call Emergency Management at 503-366-3931

Cost: Free

Length: 7 hours

CANCELED: High Wind Warning

2011-03-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

The high wind warning has been canceled as of 5 PM 3/15/2011.

Thanks,

Columbia County Emergency Management

High Wind Warning for Columbia County: March 15, 2011

2011-03-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

High Wind Warning for Columbia County for March 15, 2011 until 9 PM this evening. Most of the area affected will be higher elevations, such as Vernonia and Mist.

For more information, please visit: http://weather.gov/portland .

--Columbia County Emergency Management

+++++++++

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
341 PM PDT TUE MAR 15 2011

...QUICK BURST OF STRONG WINDS TO AFFECT COAST AND COAST RANGE
THROUGH THIS EVENING...

.LOW PRESSURE OFFSHORE IS PUSHING STRONG WINDS ALOFT DOWN TO THE
SURFACE THIS AFTERNOON. INITIALLY THESE STRONG WINDS WERE ONLY
OCCURRING IN THUNDERSTORMS...BUT NOW THEY ARE BECOMING MORE
WIDESPREAD ALONG THE NORTHERN AND CENTRAL OREGON COAST AND COAST
RANGE. EXPECT STRONG SOUTHWEST WINDS AT TIMES THROUGH THIS EVENING
BEFORE WINDS DECREASE LATER TONIGHT.

ORZ001>004-160400-
/O.NEW.KPQR.HW.W.0011.110315T2241Z-110316T0400Z/
NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-
COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON-
CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK...
NETARTS...PACIFIC CITY...LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...
CAPE FOULWEATHER...YACHATS...FLORENCE...VERNONIA
341 PM PDT TUE MAR 15 2011

...HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM PDT THIS EVENING FOR THE
NORTHERN AND CENTRAL OREGON COAST AND COAST RANGE...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PORTLAND HAS ISSUED A HIGH WIND
WARNING...WHICH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM PDT THIS EVENING.

* WINDS: SOUTHWEST 30 TO 40 MPH WITH GUSTS UP TO 65 MPH...
 ESPECIALLY IN EXPOSED LOCATIONS.

* TIMING: NOW THROUGH 9 PM THIS EVENING.

* LOCATIONS INCLUDE: VERNONIA...LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...CAPE
 FOULWEATHER...YACHATS...FLORENCE...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...
 TILLAMOOK...NETARTS...PACIFIC CITY

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A HIGH WIND WARNING MEANS A HAZARDOUS HIGH WIND EVENT IS EXPECTED
OR OCCURRING. SUSTAINED WIND SPEEDS OF AT LEAST 40 MPH OR GUSTS
OF 58 MPH OR MORE CAN LEAD TO PROPERTY DAMAGE

Special Weather Statement: 3/15/2011

2011-03-15T12:40:00.000-07:00

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
1140 AM PDT TUE MAR 15 2011

ORZ001>008-010-012-WAZ020>022-039-040-160045-
NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-
COAST RANGE OF NORTHWEST OREGON-
CENTRAL COAST RANGE OF WESTERN OREGON-LOWER COLUMBIA-
GREATER PORTLAND METRO AREA-CENTRAL WILLAMETTE VALLEY-
SOUTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY-NORTHERN OREGON CASCADE FOOTHILLS-
CASCADE FOOTHILLS IN LANE COUNTY-WILLAPA HILLS-
SOUTH WASHINGTON COAST-I-5 CORRIDOR IN COWLITZ COUNTY-
GREATER VANCOUVER AREA-SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADE FOOTHILLS-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK...
LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...FLORENCE...VERNONIA...JEWELL...TRASK...
GRANDE RONDE...TIDEWATER...SWISSHOME...ST. HELENS...CLATSKANIE...
HILLSBORO...PORTLAND...OREGON CITY...GRESHAM...SALEM...
MCMINNVILLE...DALLAS...EUGENE...CORVALLIS...ALBANY...SANDY...
SILVER FALLS STATE PARK...SWEET HOME...VIDA...LOWELL...
COTTAGE GROVE...FRANCES...RYDERWOOD...RAYMOND...LONG BEACH...
CATHLAMET...LONGVIEW...KELSO...CASTLE ROCK...VANCOUVER...
BATTLE GROUND...WASHOUGAL...TOUTLE...ARIEL...COUGAR
1140 AM PDT TUE MAR 15 2011

...SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS EXPECTED THROUGH THIS EVENING...

AN INCREASINGLY UNSTABLE ATMOSPHERE WILL LIKELY LEAD TO THE
DEVELOPMENT OF SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS ACROSS SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST OREGON THIS AFTERNOON. THUNDERSTORMS MAY BECOME INCREASINGLY STRONG AS THE AFTERNOON PROGRESSES...WITH LOCAL GUSTY WINDS AND HAIL POSSIBLE. THERE IS ALSO AN ENHANCED POSSIBILITY OF
FUNNEL CLOUDS THIS AFTERNOON. FUNNEL CLOUDS OFTEN DO NOT TOUCH THE
GROUND. HOWEVER...IF THEY DO TOUCH THE GROUND THEY ARE DANGEROUS AND CAN BE DAMAGING.

Nuclear Concerns FAQ from Oregon Health Authority

2011-03-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

March 14, 2011 EVENT IN JAPAN AND MONITORING IN OREGON: QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q. Are there radiological dangers in Oregon due to the nuclear release in Japan?
A. No. We are 4,700 miles away from Japan and any airborne particles are not expected to reach us. There is no indication at this time that there is any health risk.

Q. What happened at the nuclear facility in Japan?
A. The major earthquake damaged nuclear facilities in Japan. In response, Japanese engineers are taking emergency measures to prevent a serious release of radioactive materials. At this time, there are no health risks for Oregonians.

Q. How does this event differ from the Cherynobyl nuclear reactor meltdown event in 1986?
This event is entirely different than what took place in Chernobyl. Unlike Chernobyl, there has been no catastrophic failure.

Q. Are Oregonians on the coast at greater risk than people inland?
A. No. No radiation has been released into the atmosphere that can reach us anywhere in the state. Therefore, there are no current health concerns for any Oregonians on the coast or inland.

Q. Are Oregon officials currently monitoring radiation levels in Oregon? Air and Water?
A. Yes. Radiation levels have been continuously and routinely monitored by Oregon Public Health and EPA for twenty‐five years. If the situation in Japan worsens and the potential risk to Oregonians changes, public health officials will inform the public.

Q. What is Potassium Iodide?
Potassium Iodide (KI) is an iodine supplement that is available over the counter, such as ThryoSafe and ThyroShield. KI is used around nuclear releases to block the uptake of radioactive iodine in the body.

Q. Do I need to take KI to protect against radiation exposure?
A. No. KI is only appropriate within a very close proximity to a nuclear event. Because we are about 4800 miles away there is no need for protection. In fact, using KI when inappropriate could have potential serious side effects such as abnormal heart rhythms, nausea, vomiting, electrolyte abnormalities and bleeding.

Q. Are there any protective measures I should currently take?
A. No, not given our current situation. If the potential risk to Oregonians changes, local Oregon officials will inform you of the appropriate precautionary procedures.

Q. How do I get more information?
A. Monitor the Oregon Health Authority website @ http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/CurrentHazards/Pages/index.aspx

Public Health Information about Japanese Nuclear Threat

2011-03-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

This is information from CHD Public Health regarding concerns about radiation from Japan's failing nuclear facilities. In sum, there is no likely risk to Oregonians. If there was a risk, our public health partners would react very quickly to it.

Please feel free to contact Anne Parrott, the public health preparedness coordinator, if you have questions about health effects or contact us regarding any other disaster-related questions at 503-366-3931 or emergency.management@co.columbia.or.us .

Thanks,

Columbia County Emergency Management

>>>>>>

All,

There is much concern and confusion in our communities regarding the risk of radiation exposure in the Pacific NW and the possible need to begin taking potassium iodide/iodine to lessen the risk of developing future health problems due to radiation exposure. We have been informed by our federal and state Public Health experts that it is highly unlikely that Oregon citizens will be at risk for radiation exposure from the Japanese nuclear reactor malfunctions and the only people who should take potassium iodide/iodine are those that are within a few miles of the nuclear site. They have also warned us that potassium iodide/iodine can present health risks to pregnant women, women who are nursing and people with diabetes.

We encourage you to share this information with your staff/employees, community partners, family, friends, etc.

Anne Parrott, M.S.

Coordinator: Public Health Preparedness

Columbia County Medical Reserve Corps

Columbia County Push Partner Registry

Columbia County SNS

Columbia Health District - Public Health Authority

Office: 503-397-4651 x2022

Email: aparrott@chdpublichealth.com

2011-03-08T10:35:00.000-08:00

Columbia County Emergency Management will also try to present.....

Columbia County Social Services Provider Agencies for kids and adults, will be hosting three FREE informational panel discussions on services available to any person with any type of disability (for example; physical, emotional, mental, intellectual, developmental, etc.)

WHO IS INVITED?

ü Individuals (Veterans, Seniors, Adults, Children, etc.) with any type of disability

ü Parents of individuals with disabilities

ü Teachers of individuals with disabilities

ü Care givers of individuals with disabilities

ü and professionals delivering services to individuals with disabilities

MEETINGS TO BE HELD:

1.) April 5^th from 7-8 p.m. at the Clatskanie District Office

555 Bryant in Clatskanie

2.) April 12^th from 7-8 p.m. at Vernonia Middle School cafeteria

249 Bridge Street in Vernonia

3.) April 19^th from 7-8 p.m. at Columbia Community Mental Health’s

Community Room

58646 McNulty Way in St. Helens

FOR MORE, CALL NANCY AT 503-438-2223

Agricultural Disaster Declaration for Columbia County: March 4, 2011

2011-03-04T15:57:00.000-08:00

Columbia County Receives Agricultural

Disaster Assistance Declaration

March 3, 2011 – St. Helens, OR – Columbia County farmers are eligible for disaster assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for potential losses from January’s storms.

President Barack Obama declared a disaster for several Oregon counties, including Clatsop County, on February 17^th for damage from rain and landslides that occurred January 13-21, 2010. This declaration included programs from the USDA. Due to the way the USDA disaster declaration process works, farmers in counties contiguous to those counties declared are also eligible, making the declaration applicable to Columbia County.

This declaration opens up certain types of assistance for farmers, according to Derek White with Columbia County Emergency Management, whose agency deals with major emergency preparedness and response. “Farmers here are able to apply for disaster assistance from the Farm Service Agency. That assistance, if the applicant is eligible, ranges from emergency loans to supplemental revenue assistance payments”, White says.

Farmers have until October 17^th, 2011 to apply. Assistance applications must be filed at the nearest Farm Service Agency (FSA) office, which is located at:

Washington County FSA

1080 SW Baseline, Suite B2

Hillsboro, OR 97123

For questions about the program, please contact the Washington County FSA office at 503-648-3174.

For more about Columbia County Emergency Management, check out its blog at http://columbiacountyem.blogspot.com or call 503-366-3931.

Amber Alert From Chehalis

2011-03-01T12:42:00.000-08:00

columbian.com

An Amber Alert has been activated in the search for a 34-year-old man who allegedly abducted his 4-year-old son this morning from the Human Response Network family counseling offices in Chehalis.

The Washington alert was backed by one in Oregon activated at 12:21 p.m.

Dustin Reed is reportedly driving a black 1995 four-door Infinity with license plate number 617TQP. His son’s name is Jacek.

Police believe Reed has family in the Centralia area. His vehicle was last seen heading toward Interstate 5 from the counseling offices.

Reed is believed to be on military leave from Kentucky. He allegedly took his son by force and may have injured him during the abduction while placing him in the car.

No weapons were used during the incident.

Jacek is about 44 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. He has a red mark under his left eye and was wearing a blue-gray Mario T-shirt, blue flannel jacket, blue jeans and blue boots.

Dustin Reed is about 5 feet 9 inches tall, 160 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. He was wearing a black leather jacket and jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Washington State Patrol at 360-748-8605 or call 911.

Update on Roads: 3/1/2011 at 11:30 AM

2011-03-01T11:27:00.000-08:00

Here are updates on roads around Columbia County:

Turley Road, between Daisy Lane and Church Road--power line down along roadside; fire and PUD crews en route.

Nick Thomas Road: now open.

Walker Road, north one-half mile of Beaver Homes Road: closed, blocked by fallen tree.

See previous blog post for other road conditions.

Road Update: March 1, 2011

2011-03-01T09:37:00.000-08:00

Some road issues as of 9:30 on 3/1/2011:

OR 47, Mist-Clatskanie: Chains required for vehicles towing or over 10,000 GWV.

US 30, 1 mile east/south of Goble: minor delays with flaggers on-scene.

Apiary, Karth-Schaffer: Tree, power lines on road. Traffic slow at this time.

Nick Thomas Road off Neer City Road: Closed by fallen tree.

Girt Road: Closed by fallen trees.

Please report road obstructions on County roads to 503-397-5090.

Columbia County Emergency Management

Portland Reverse 9-1-1 Test Tomorrow 1/26

Heavy Rain Tuesday and Wednesday

Freezing Rain Advisory until Midnight 1/20

Wind Advisory - gusts to 50 mph - Friday Night Through Saturday Morning

Heavy Rains Abate Thursday, Return to Normal Rainy Weather for the Weeknd

Areal Flood Advisory in Effect

Snow, High Wind and Possible Spot Flooding This Week

Cold Nights, Freezing Fog, and possible Snow Flurries over the MLK Jr Weekend

Three Back-to-Back Storms this Week

Holiday Fire Prevention

Holiday Travel? Check out these driving trips

Preparedness Presents

Storm Ready Ceremony

Air Stagnation Advisory

Wind and Rain Storm Totals

Flood Advisory

High Wind Warning Tuesday for Coast and Vernonia

High Wind/Heavy Rain Event

Wind/Rain Storms this Coming Week

Light Snow Possible Friday Night - Saturday Morning

Winter Weather Advisory

Nationwide EAS Test This Wednesday

Frost Advisory Tonight

Frost Advisory

Winter Weather Awareness Week

Disaster Assistance Available For Small Businesses

Disaster Assistance Available for Small Businesses

"Oregon Business" magazine features article on Vernonia

Used Cell Phones Needed

Contagion Fact or Fiction?

New FEMA Apps Available

Thunderstorms Possible This Afternoon and Evening

Disaster Preparedness, Mitigation, Response and Recovery Workshop in Clackamas

Storm King Incident Survivor to Speak at Scappoose High

National Weather Service Open House this Saturday

E. Coli Strawberry Sales Locations

Scappoose-Vernonia Road Closure

Scappoose-Vernonia Road closure begins today, July 18th, and lasts through Friday July 29th. There is no local detour. Alternate travel routes are Apiary Road and the old Pittsburg Road. Please be aware that the old Pittsburg Road is a gravel road.

Ready Your Business

Upcoming Out-of-County Classes

High River Levels--Use Caution Around Water

Zombie Apocalypse

31st Anniversary of Mt. St. Helens Eruption

High Wind Warning for Higher Elevations: 4-25-11

High Wind Warning

Cooking in the Dark Class

Facebook Page

Shelter Class on April 30 CANCELED

Portland EM Hiring Public Information Officer

FEMA Online Learning Offline

Restrictions on Scappoose-Vernonia Road

Shelter Class: April 30th

Shelter Operations and Shelter Simulation

Special Weather Statement for Columbia County: April 5, 2011

Special Weather Statement

Free Red Cross Preparedness Seminars

Japan Radiation Update from CHD Public Health

Disaster Anniversaries and Reflection

Announcing: Prepare to Be Your Own Hero Class

Lewis and Clark Bridge Delays

Lewis and Clark Bridge painting will resume Monday, expect minor delays

Oregon Public Health Current Hazards Page

Upcoming Classes

Flood Fight Design and Planning Workshop

Shelter Operations and Shelter Simulation

CANCELED: High Wind Warning

High Wind Warning for Columbia County: March 15, 2011

Special Weather Statement: 3/15/2011

Nuclear Concerns FAQ from Oregon Health Authority

Public Health Information about Japanese Nuclear Threat

Agricultural Disaster Declaration for Columbia County: March 4, 2011

Amber Alert From Chehalis

Amber Alert issued for boy taken from Chehalis

Update on Roads: 3/1/2011 at 11:30 AM

Road Update: March 1, 2011