Hundreds evacuated after flooding at Columbia County RV park

Atmospheric river brings rising waters, forcing residents to seek shelter

Mar. 14, 2026 at 7:51pm

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Around 200 residents were evacuated from the Rivers Edge RV Park in Clatskanie, Oregon early Saturday morning due to flooding from an atmospheric river hitting the state. Dozens of trailers and vehicles were damaged, and the American Red Cross, local emergency responders, and state agencies are assisting with sheltering and feeding the displaced residents.

Why it matters

Extreme weather events like atmospheric rivers can pose serious risks to vulnerable populations living in low-lying areas or in temporary housing like RV parks. This incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and coordination between local, county, and state agencies to ensure the safety of affected residents.

The details

Emergency responders evacuated residents from the Rivers Edge RV Park as water levels rose in the area. Clatskanie High School is serving as the primary shelter, and the city of Rainier and Rainier School District have offered temporary sheltering for those with RVs. Crews from the fire district, search and rescue, and sheriff's office are assisting with evacuations and damage assessments.

  • The evacuation occurred early Saturday morning, March 14, 2026.
  • Tides are expected to return later in the day, potentially bringing higher water levels.

The players

Corey Padrón

Director of Columbia County Emergency Management.

Clatskanie High School

Serving as the primary shelter for the affected residents.

Rainier School District

Offering a location for temporary sheltering for those with RVs.

Clatskanie Fire District

Assisting with evacuations and damage assessments.

Columbia County Search and Rescue

Assisting with evacuations and damage assessments.

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What they’re saying

“Our priority is making sure residents are safe and have a place to go. Conditions may continue to change today, and we encourage residents to stay alert, avoid flooded areas, and follow guidance from local officials.”

— Corey Padrón, Director of Columbia County Emergency Management

What’s next

Crews will continue to monitor water levels and relocate RVs from flood-prone areas as a precaution. Residents in low-lying areas near the Clatskanie River should remain alert for changing conditions.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and coordination between local, county, and state agencies to ensure the safety of vulnerable populations during extreme weather events. It also highlights the need for resilient housing options that can withstand the impacts of climate change.