About landslides in Portland
Some parts of Portland are prone to landslides, especially the West Hills and higher elevations on the east side. Rain, loose fill, groundwater under streets, and other factors can push water, mud, and debris onto city streets and damage private property.
If you live in an area known to experience landslides, be alert, particularly during periods of heavy rain or snowmelt. Keep ditches, culverts, and trash racks clear of debris so stormwater has somewhere to go.
How to report landslides
See signs of a landslide that threatens public safety? Evacuate immediately, then call 9-1-1. If you see signs of a landslide or suspect one may occur, evacuate the area immediately. If the landslide threatens public safety, call 9-1-1 once you are able to evacuate.
For landslides blocking streets or sidewalks that are not an immediate threat to public safety, call PBOT Maintenance Dispatch 24/7 at 503-823-1700 or email pdxroads@portlandoregon.gov.
For landslides on private property that don't threaten public safety or city right-of-way, call the Bureau of Development Services (BDS) at 503-823-2633 (CODE).
Sandbag locations
To help residents and business owners prepare for a flood emergency, sand and sandbags will be available FREE to anyone who needs them to protect their property from flood damage. City crews keep sites stocked with sand and sandbags. No shovels provided. The public must bring their own. Locations are:
- Lents Park parking lot at SE 88th Avenue, just south of Holgate Boulevard. Follow one-way traffic to the sand pile.
- Gabriel Park parking lot at SW 42nd Avenue and Vermont Street. Enter park from Vermont.
- SE 111th Avenue and Harold Street at the southeast corner of the intersection.