Manzanita Declares State of Emergency After N. Oregon Coast Rains Begin Landslides

Updated 12/19/25 at 1:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Manzanita, Oregon) – A serious downpour and saturated soils are making for uneasy to dangerous conditions throughout much of the Pacific Northwest, and on the north Oregon coast the Manzanita City Council has declared a local state of emergency after one hillside has begun to move.

UPDATE: "The City of Manzanita would like to reassure residents and visitors that the area of concern related to recent erosion and soil instability is isolated to a specific location on city-owned property and does not pose a widespread risk to the community."

The declaration was announced late Tuesday night, after erosion was discovered on city-owned land, which had been causing soil instability and surface failure. Saturated ground conditions have led to sections of sedimentary material breaking apart and sliding downslope, leaving exposed soil and debris. The site is currently being assessed and actively worked on as crews stabilize it.

The region is in the middle of an atmospheric river, according to the National Weather Service (NWS), which has issued a variety of flood alerts for the coastline as well as warnings of greatly increased possibilities of landslides in western Washington.

Officials in Manzanita warn that unstable land conditions combined with the forecasted storm bringing heavy rain and strong winds could increase the risk of landslides, falling trees, and damage to homes and public infrastructure. The situation, they said, poses a threat to both residents and emergency responders.

“This declaration allows the City to act quickly and responsibly to protect public safety,” said Mayor Kathryn Stock. “Our priority is ensuring we have the flexibility to respond immediately if conditions worsen.”

Under the declaration, City Manager Leila Aman has authority to take necessary actions to safeguard life and property. That includes coordinating with county and state agencies, expediting emergency contracts and repairs, deploying personnel and resources, and taking preventive measures where needed.

At this hour (3 a.m.), there does not appear to be a change to the tourism industry or for visitors. In the overnight hours there have been some traffic delays near Tillamook, Cloverdale and south of Astoria - but nothing affecting Manzanita. [UPDATE] As of 8 a.m., there are numerous power outages in the area because of high winds, now including a large area around Cannon Beach. See Oregon Coast Highway, Coast Range Passes Traffic, Road Conditions  

The declaration was made under Oregon Revised Statutes 401.309 and 279B.080, which allow local governments to respond swiftly when public safety is at risk. It also ratifies actions already taken by city staff in preparation for the incoming storm.

The local state of emergency will remain in effect through at least January 8, 2026, and may be extended if conditions require. City officials urge residents, especially those in areas with steep slopes or drainage issues, to stay alert. There may be possible power outages or road closures, not just because of current high winds but trees and soil may move, displacing power lines. Official said to be on the lookout for more safety guidance issued by the City or emergency services.

Updates will be posted on the City’s website and official communication channels as the situation develops. For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency police assistance, call 503-815-1911.

See Oregon Coast Weather - Manzanita Weather - Nehalem Bay / Wheeler - Rockaway Beach Weather

There is a flood watch out for the majority of the Oregon coast and south Washington coast, including the Tillamook Coast, Clatsop County towns and the nearby Coast Range. This is in effect from late Wednesday through late Friday night.

The NWS issued the alert, saying excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.

“Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas,” the NWS said in its bulletin. “Storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain. Landslides and debris flows are possible during this flood event. People, structures, and roads located below steep slopes, in canyons, and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk from rapidly moving landslides.”

The Lincoln City area along Highway 229 is dealing with landslide issues, and more flooding may become a problem Thursday. Central Oregon Coast Landslide Worsens; How to Report Peronal Belongings Finds

Hotels in Cannon Beach - Where to eat - Cannon Beach Maps and Virtual Tours

Hotels in Manzanita, Wheeler - Where to eat - Manzanita, Wheeler Maps and Virtual Tours

 

 

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