Landslides, flooding, and sandbags

Information
PBOT vehicles moving dirt from landslide on West Burnside Street.
Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is the city’s lead agency keeping city streets safe during flooding and landslides. Prevention tips, what to do in a landslide, how to report, sandbag locations.
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About landslides in Portland

Some parts of Portland are prone to landslides, especially the West Hills and higher elevations on the eastside. 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.


Reporting landslides

If you see the signs of a landslide that threatens public safety, evacuate immediately, then call 9-1-1 when it is safe to do so.

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. Interpretation available.

For landslides on private property that don't threaten public safety or public right-of-way, call Portland Permitting & Development at 503-823-2633. Interpretation available.


Sandbag locations

Sand and sandbags are available FREE to anyone who needs them to protect their property from flood damage. City crews keep sites stocked ahead of emergencies. Bring your own shovel. There are no shovels on site.

Locations:

  • Lents Park. Located in the parking lot at SE 88th Avenue, just south of Holgate Boulevard. Follow one-way traffic to the sand pile.
  • Gabriel Park. Located in the parking lot at SW 42nd Avenue and Vermont Street. Enter park from Vermont.

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