Newport Fire Department was dispatched to a public assist at approximately 6:33p.m. Thursday evening. Initial dispatch information stated that a sinkhole had appeared in the garage of a residence in the 300 block of NE 70th Drive. An initial fire responders confirmed that the residence was being undermined and half the garage had disappeared along with a vehicle. The affected structure and adjoining residences were evacuated.
At this point there are five homes directly affected by a landslide due to erosion near Schooner Creek caused by saturated from a sustained pattern of heavy precipitation. A gas line was damaged and there was an active gas leak at the scene. Newport Fire and Police Department have evacuated the nearby residences and Northwest Natural was on scene to secure the gas leak.
Staff from the City of Newport have met with Northwest Natural Gas, Central Lincoln PUD and Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) to discuss the next steps regarding this matter. The City is evaluating each of the structures impacted directly by the slide. Each structure will be evaluated and a determination will be made as to whether temporary access will be allowed. Access for any “red tagged” structures will not be permitted.
The City will be contacting the affected property owners to provide guidance as to the next steps that will need to be made. The City of Newport will continue to monitor the location to determine whether any additional land movement is occurring. Property owners are advised to contact Central Dispatch at 541-265-4231 if any new signs of earth movement are detected. At this time the street and utilities on NE 70th Drive have not been impacted any earth movement at this location.
The City of Newport appreciates the cooperation of the neighborhood in working with Police, Fire and other utilities in addressing the emergency situation. The City of Newport reminds everyone to have a “go kit” ready in case of emergencies that require evacuation. Information on go kits can be found at www.ready.gov.
photos courtesy of Cathy Wareham
