State of Emergency Douglas Co., Feb. 28

(Douglas County, OR) Severe weather conditions continue to spread across Douglas County.  The Douglas County Board of Commissioners declared a state of emergency for Douglas County today at the Board of Commissioners Business Meeting. The order was recorded and forwarded onto our Emergency Manager for processing, and submission to the State and Governor Brown’s office requesting an official emergency declaration for Douglas County. The order cited severe winter storms, heavy snowfall, widespread power outages and road closures from downed trees and power lines. The Governor’s emergency declaration will allow increased flexibility in how services are managed to ensure that resources reach our citizens and to continue make the safety of our citizens our top priority. The Governor’s emergency declaration will also authorize state agencies to expedite additional resources services management tools to users who would not otherwise have access. An Emergency Operations Center has been set up at the DCSO to help facilitate access to emergency services and provide the latest information updates. Do not call 9-1-1 to determine when your power will be turned back on. The emergency dispatchers do not have access to this information. Contact your power company directly to determine an estimated time of restoration. The following locations have shelters and warming centers available: – American Red Cross Shelter – Winston Foursquare Church, 540 SE Main St, Winston, OR; – Dream Center – 813 SE Lane Street, Roseburg, OR (Open 7p – 7a) –  (541) 673-5918; – Yoncalla Elementary Gym – 400 First Street, Yoncalla, OR; – Sutherlin Community Center – 150 Willamette Street, Sutherlin, OR. We continue to encourage residents travel with caution. If driving is required, motorists should be prepared for potential hazards and plan accordingly. If traveling ensure you have sufficient emergency supplies including food, water, medications, winter clothing, flashlights and blankets. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination and reduce your speed. ODOT has opened Interstate 5 and traffic is flowing north and southbound. The Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management Division and County Commissioners continue to work with local and state partners.