Problems Rising in Clatskanie (PHOTOS)

Those needing sand bags can get them at the City Shops on Clatskanie Highway 47.

Photos: Oregon State Police Sergeant Larry Lucas

(CLATSKANIE, Oregon) - Clatskanie officials have closed the Clatskanie School District. Due to flooding the Swedetown Village Manufactured Home Park has been evacuated, the area where the Northwood In and Carla's Closet have been flooded.

Swedetown Road at Olsen Road are under water and residents are urged to avoid this area as the road is closed.

Red Cross officials have set up a shelter that is currently open to those who have been affected by the floods.

The Shelter location is at the Clatskanie School District Administration Offices on Bryant Street.

Those needing sand bags can get them at the City Shops on Clatskanie Highway 47.

Oregon State Police Sergeant Larry Lucas forwarded the accompanying photographs showing the developing conditions in the Clatskanie area of Columbia County.

Among the evacuated areas, Swedetown Village and Highway 30 has been the scene of response from the Clatskanie Police Department, Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police, and Clatskanie Fire personnel evacuated mobile home park.

Another hard hit area is Highway 30 eastbound at Lost Creek near milepost 54. High water, two to three feet deep, covers eastbound lane in this stretch of Highway 30.

The Clatskanie River in Clatskanie is inches below spilling into the downtown area.

Water is still rising, and a high tide influence is expected at approximately noon.

ODOT and Ond OSP both encourage motorists who are planning a trip on state highways during and after such heavy rains to visit TripCheck.com to check their route before leaving.

Be prepared for delays by making sure vehicles are fully fueled, and carry extra supplies. Be aware of the potential for hydroplaning with water on the roadway. More winter driving tips are available on ODOT's Web site.