01/02/09
ODOT personnel were on scene Friday morning assessing the large slide blocking all lanes of Highway 26 about eight miles east of Sandy near milepost 34. The mud slide and debris is now estimated to be up to 2 feet deep and over 200 yards in width. Approximately 300 feet of guardrail was damaged on the east end as mud, trees and debris flowed across from the south side of the highway.
On January 1, 2009 at approximately 10:24 p.m. reports were received of the mud slide that came from the south side of Highway 26 between milepost 34 and 35. Two vehicles were reported to be on the east end of the slide area. The vehicles have been removed and no injuries were reported.
ODOT has established a detour which will probably be in place for a couple days. Travelers need to pay attention for the signs posted prior to Sandy and at the east end of the town advising of the closure and detour.
The detour will use Ten Eyck Road on the east end of Sandy, Marmot Road and Sleepy Hollow Road in the Brightwood area. Motorists traveling between the Portland area to central Oregon may also consider using Interstate 84 to Highway 197 or Highway 97.
Traffic update information will be posted on ODOT's website at www.TripCheck.com . Questions should be directed to ODOT.
In other news, Governor Ted Kulongoski Friday declared a state of emergency for Clackamas County due to flood levels and authorized the use of state resources to help the county respond to the effects of severe weather.
The Governor declared a state of emergency, pursuant to ORS 401.055 due to large amounts of rain and snow melt that is causing flooding in Clackamas County in low lying areas.
"My priority is to ensure the safety of Oregonians," the Governor said. "The state will continue working with local and county officials to identify specific needs and how we can be helpful in recovery and restoration efforts."
The Governor issued this proclamation verbally and will formalize it with an Executive Order later this afternoon. At the Governor's direction, state officials have been monitoring the conditions since Thursday.
Oregon Emergency Management (OEM) is in close contact with Clackamas County officials and will continue to meet their needs as additional resources are required. OEM is the state coordinating agency for emergencies.
The Oregon National Guard, at the direction of OEM, is standing by to provide additional support as requested by the county.
The Oregon Department of Transportation has been assisting with de-icing efforts during the first storm that hit Northwest Oregon in December. ODOT remains ready to assist with further restoration and recovery efforts as needed by the county.
