CLACKAMAS COUNTY, OR – A relentless atmospheric river has pushed the Clackamas River to dangerous levels, triggering a wave of mandatory Level 3 “Go Now!” evacuations early Friday morning, December 19, 2025. Local officials are warning of “extreme danger” as floodwaters inundate low-lying residential areas, secondary roads, and mobile home parks.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued flood warnings for the region as the Clackamas River near Oregon City surged toward a crest of 42.1 feet, well into the “Moderate” flood stage. With soils already saturated from a series of storms that began in early December, the heavy rains from this week’s Category 5 atmospheric river have led to rapid rises in local creeks and tributaries, including Johnson Creek and the Molalla River.
Evacuation Zones: Residents Told to “Leave Immediately”
Clackamas County Disaster Management has activated its emergency protocols, moving several high-risk zones to Level 3 (Go Now!) status. At this level, danger is imminent, and residents are urged not to stop to gather belongings.
The following areas are under mandatory Level 3 evacuation as of Friday morning:
- S Pioneer Crossing Road: Areas north and south of S Feldheimer Road along the Clackamas River.
- Creekside Lane: Locations off Eagle Creek Road in unincorporated Clackamas County.
- Tranquillity Lane: Low-lying areas between S Bakers Ferry Road and the Clackamas River (starting at 20600 S Tranquility Lane).
- Paradise Point: Including SE Paradise Road, Alder Street, and SE Starr Road to its end.
- Carver Mobile Home Ranch: Specifically south of Highway 224 in Carver.
- Dickie Prairie Road: Properties from 34501 to 36004.
- Shady Dell Road and Fawn Lane.
Additionally, broader Level 2 (Be Set) warnings are in effect for low-lying areas from Interstate 205 out to Milo McIver State Park. Residents in these zones should have their “Go Kits” packed and be ready to depart at a moment’s notice.
Shelter Operations and Emergency Services
In response to the displacement of hundreds of residents, Clackamas Community College (CCC) has opened the Gregory Forum at its Oregon City campus (19600 Molalla Avenue) as a 24/7 emergency shelter.
- Pets & Service Animals: Officials have confirmed that pets and service animals are welcome at the CCC shelter.
- Warming Centres: Overnight warming centers, such as the Father’s Heart Street Ministry in Oregon City, remain operational to assist those who may be unsheltered during the flooding event.
- Emergency Contact: Authorities are asking the public not to call 911 unless there is an immediate threat to life or safety. For non-emergency flood reports (e.g., clogged drains or road hazards), residents should contact local public works departments.
The Science Behind the Surge: Atmospheric River AR-5
The 2025 Pacific Northwest flood event is being driven by one of the strongest atmospheric rivers on record. This “Pineapple Express” system has transported a moisture plume equivalent to the flow of the Mississippi River directly into Western Oregon and Washington.
“The ground is essentially a sponge that can’t hold any more water,” said Daniel Nibouar, Clackamas County Disaster Management Director. “Between the high winds gusting to 50 mph and the saturated soil, we are seeing not just flooding, but a high risk of downed trees and power outages.”
| River / Location | Current Stage (ft) | Flood Stage (ft) | Forecasted Crest (ft) |
| Clackamas River (Oregon City) | 39.8 | 39.0 | 42.1 |
| Johnson Creek (Sycamore) | 11.4 | 11.0 | 13.6 |
| Molalla River (Canby) | 14.4 | 20.0 | 23.1 |
Travel Hazards and Infrastructure Impact
The flooding has led to widespread road closures throughout the Willamette Valley. Interstate 205 and Highway 224 are seeing significant standing water near the riverbanks. Drivers are reminded of the phrase “Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” as just 12 inches of moving water can sweep away a small vehicle.
School & Campus Closures: Due to the emergency, Grand Forks Public Schools (if applicable) and several local districts have moved to e-learning or full closures. Clackamas Community College remains open primarily as a shelter site, with non-essential academic activities paused or moved online.
As residents begin to look toward recovery, the demand for flood damage restoration and emergency disaster services is expected to surge. So know more about the followings
- Flood insurance claim assistance Oregon
- Water damage restoration Clackamas County
- Emergency sump pump repair services
- Flood plain mapping and mitigation 2026
- FEMA individual assistance for flood victims
Next Steps for Impacted Residents
If you are currently in an evacuation zone, follow the instructions of local law enforcement immediately. Check the ClackCo Alerts website for real-time updates and ensure your “Go Kit” contains essential medications, warm clothing, and important documents.