A significant landslide has crippled Oregon Highway 229. The disaster struck Lincoln County on December 12, 2025. It has caused a long-term closure. The roadway now sits impassable. This event follows days of heavy rain. High water plagued the region. The landslide occurred north of Siletz. It happened around milepost 14.
Devastating Slide Engulfs Highway
A massive section of Highway 229 is gone. Earth, rocks, and trees cascaded down. The slide created a chasm. It took out a two-tenths of a mile stretch of road. This was no small event. It is described as severe. The slide also impacted the Siletz River. Debris entered the waterway. This includes structural material. It may also include vehicle debris.
Homes Damaged, Residents Evacuated
The disaster directly affected residents. Up to five homes sustained damage. At least three residences suffered substantial impact. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. All occupants were safely evacuated. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office confirmed this. Two displaced residents found help. The American Red Cross assisted them. This highlights the immediate human cost. It also shows swift emergency action.
Road Closure Creates Major Disruption
Highway 229 is now indefinitely closed. Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) officials confirmed this. The road is impassable. Geotechnical crews must assess the damage. They need to evaluate the slope stability. This process will take time. Officials cannot yet set a reopening date. The closure could last days. It might extend to weeks or months. It could even be longer. Travelers face significant detours. U.S. Highway 101 is the alternate route. This adds about 10 miles. It increases travel time between Siletz and Lincoln City. Drivers should check TripCheck.com. This site offers the latest road conditions.
Multiple Agencies Respond to Crisis
Several agencies quickly mobilized. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office led response efforts. Oregon State Police also responded. ODOT crews were present. The Siletz Valley Rural Fire Department assisted. North Lincoln Fire and Rescue joined them. Lincoln County Emergency Management activated its Emergency Operations Center. This center supports ongoing response actions. State agencies were notified. They are assessing impacts on the Siletz River. Governor Tina Kotek’s office is monitoring news. She urged residents to follow official guidance.
Heavy Rains Fuel the Disaster
Recent weather played a key role. Several days of heavy rain saturated the ground. This moisture likely destabilized the slope. ODOT crews had been busy. They addressed other weather impacts. Emergency repairs occurred earlier in the week. A sunken grade needed attention near milepost 9. The landslide originated on property. Weyerhaeuser owns the land above Highway 229. The slide then extended downslope. It reached residential properties below. It continued into the Siletz River. Weyerhaeuser representatives were notified. They are evaluating their property.
Long Road to Recovery Ahead
This event poses a major challenge. Highway 229 is a vital link. It connects Siletz with the coast. Its prolonged closure impacts local access. It disrupts daily commutes. It affects local businesses. Repairing such a large slide is complex. It requires detailed engineering studies. The exact timeline remains unknown. Geotechnical assessments are paramount. They will guide future repair efforts. The scale of the damage is extensive. This suggests a lengthy recovery period.
Future Uncertainty for Travelers
Residents and travelers face uncertainty. The immediate focus is safety. Evacuations were successful. No injuries occurred. However, the road remains closed. The detour adds time and distance. This is a harsh reminder of nature’s power. Oregon news outlets are covering the story closely. The community faces significant challenges. ODOT will provide updates. They will share new information. This ensures travelers stay informed. The region braces for a long closure. Recovery efforts will be substantial.
